Nightmare

As if Justin's gentle words reached her sleepy mind, Natalie relaxed, her grip loosening. He carefully lifted her in his arms, repositioning her along the bed. As he adjusted the pillow under her head, her defenses fully melted away, her furrowed brows relaxing.

Without realizing it, she nuzzled her face into the crook of his neck, her hands instinctively reaching out to hold him, seeking comfort in his presence and scent.

Justin's body tensed, his breath hitching as he looked down at her. Seeing her so comfortably sleeping, he didn't want to move away and enjoy that unexpected closeness with her, but...

'She's unaware of what she's doing, but I'm wide awake,' he reminded himself.