The Speed Of Pain

Ruffling Feathers

Continued from the last chapter

Chapter Sixteen

Marilyn

Hearing Charlotte's soft snores, I finally allow myself to relax. It's a relief to see her asleep after her constant checking on me every fifteen minutes. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate her care, but sometimes it feels suffocating. I hate being doted on when I'm hurt.

But then, on the other hand, the way she took control tonight... damn, it was hot. Seeing her stand up to Twiggy, knowing how they feel about each other, made me proud. Twiggy's subtle digs about "dumb blondes" and me being a "fake goth" for being with a "Barbie" used to get under my skin, but Charlotte shuts him down every time.

Truth is, she's smarter and more loyal than anyone else I know. Gently brushing a strand of hair from her peaceful face, I find myself whispering the three words that always escape me when she's awake. "I don't know where life will take us, but I love you. I just don't know if I deserve you," I murmur, barely audible.

She's what I'd guess others would call "the one." I don't think there's space in my heart for another. It's all Charlotte. She's the only good thing in this dark hole.

She stirs slightly, then turns to face me, her voice soft with sleep. "Why aren't you asleep? Are you in pain?"

"Is it weird that I like watching you sleep? I hate it when people do it to me," I reply, trying to lighten the mood.

Clearing her throat, she checks the clock and shakes her head. "I think it's weird that you're awake at this unholy hour. It's only four in the morning. We don't have to be up until six."

"Will you get me a painkiller?" I ask, feeling the ache in my ribs with the first move of the morning.

She scolds me gently before fetching the medication. "I knew you were in pain."

"Only when I breathe," I quip, half-serious.

Handing me the pill and a bottle of water, she smiles. "So, how are you feeling about the Video Music Awards? And the show in Tulsa?"

"Pretty good... I'll make sure to watch my step and take it easy until my ribs feel better," I assure her after swallowing the pill.

Her smile brightens. "There's my smart man."

"How smart can I be if I missed my mark and fell?" I grumble.

Rolling her eyes, she replies, "That could happen to anyone. I'm just worried about when I leave to do American Beauty..."

"You don't think I'm going to mess around—" I begin before she cuts me off.

"That's what most girls worry about when their men go on tour," she says, her tone softening. "No. Just...promise me you'll take care of yourself while I'm gone."

"I...promise," I concede.

Nodding, she adds, "I want you to eat at least two real meals a day. Even if it's fast food, I want calories in your body."

"That's...reasonable," I admit.

She nods again. "I'll do my best to help from my end, but it'll be tricky getting food delivered when you guys are on the move."

"You know I really appreciate how much you take care of me, right?" I ask, planting a kiss on her head. "Even if I resist sometimes."

She chuckles. "I do. And I appreciate you letting me boss you around a little. It always comes from love."

"I was thinking..." I start hesitantly.

Looking up at me with curiosity, she prompts, "Yes?"

"When you're done filming...we should look for a place around L.A.," I blurt out.