Too Close For Comfort (LH) (PT1&2)

BC: Contradiction

I peeked into the room. Kaytlin had finally dozed off: she hadn't slept much these past few days. She probably thought I didn't notice, but I did. I felt awful! I knew my words cut her deep enough to leave a scar, but if I swooped in to stitch things back together, it would only make things harder in the long run.

I kept my distance, creeping, carefully to my closet. Mindful of my footsteps. I didn't want to wake her. My hand gripped the door frame, and I couldn't help but steal a glance at her.

She wasn't taking care of herself. It looked like the life had been sucked out of her. All she did was hide in this room and waist away. I was disgusted with myself for putting her in this position.

I wanted to be there for her.
I wanted to hold her.
To comfort her.

I wanted to take everything back. God I wish I could go back to that party. I wouldn't have drunk so much. I wouldn't have gone with Zoey. I wouldn't have gone at all!

She stretched out her arms, rolling onto her back. I ducked into the closet, hoping she wouldn't wake up until I was out of here. I needed clothes for tonight's show.

The silence didn't mean anything. For over a week not a single noise was heard from this room. I grabbed a shirt without looking, too nervous to be caught by her pained eyes. I took a deep breath, my fingers locking around the door frame again. I leaned into view. If she was awake I couldn't tell.

I exhaled, feeling relieved. Tip toeing quickly over to my dresser. The first pair of black pants I saw were the ones I went with. Slowly I slid the drawer back into place. Thank god that it didn't make too much noise.

Right before I could make a break for the door a small whimper stopped me in my tracks. My head shot up. I could feel how wide my eyes were. Her blankets rustled as she started to toss and turn. This was how it started. She would finally doze off for a few minutes and then she would stir. Napping for fifteen to thirty minute intervals. Never actually letting her body get the rest it needed.

She let out a small cry. I reacted before I could stop myself. My body turned in her direction, approaching her bed without hesitation. She shook her back and forth, murmuring something I couldn't understand.

This had to be one of her nightmares. "Kaytlin," I started to wake her up, stopping myself. She has to sleep. If she doesn't she'll wind up in the hospital!

A tear ran down her cheek. "Luke," she cried for me. It felt like someone had stabbed me in the chest, twisting the knife slowly before pulling it out and plunging it back into me. She couldn't even escape the pain in her dreams.

"Dammit," I looked away. She would wake up soon, and I shouldn't be here when she does. But I couldn't leave her like this.

Perhaps I could calm her down. I crawled into her bed, laying down beside her. Desperately trying not to wake her up! I easily found my usual spot, settling into it before rolling her into my side.

"It's alright," I whispered, wrapping my arms around her. She bunched my shirt up in her tiny fist, snuggling into me.

"Please come back," she begged. At first it seemed like she was awake, but upon closer examination she was definitely asleep.

"You're alright," I held her tighter. She felt more fragile now than ever, "I'm right here." It felt like it had been forever since the last time I held her.