Art to fall in love with /// Lando Norris

Chapter 14: Seeking Comfort

The moonlight cast a silvery glow across Cassy's room, but it did little to soothe the turmoil inside her mind. She tossed and turned, the events of the past few days swirling into a vivid, unsettling dream. Faces and shadows mingled, creating a disorienting narrative that left her breathless and anxious.

With a sudden jolt, she sat up in bed, her heart racing and a cold sweat covering her forehead. The nightmare clung to her, making it impossible to shake the feeling of unease. She knew she wouldn't be able to fall back asleep without some reassurance.

Cassy hesitated for a moment before deciding to seek out Lando. She swung her legs over the side of the bed, feeling a bit unsteady as she stood. Slowly, she made her way down the hallway to Lando's room. She paused at his door, which was slightly ajar, and peeked inside. Lando was fast asleep, his breathing steady and calm.

She didn't want to wake him, so she started to turn back to the guest room. Just as she was about to step away, she heard Lando's voice, groggy and concerned. "Cassy? Is everything alright?"

She turned back to face him, her expression softening. "I had a nightmare. I didn't mean to wake you."

Lando rubbed his eyes and sat up, his concern evident. "Come here," he said gently, lifting the blanket and inviting her in.

Cassy hesitated for only a moment before walking over and sliding under the covers. The warmth of the bed and Lando's presence immediately began to calm her. He wrapped his arms around her, holding her close. "You're safe here," he murmured, his voice soothing and steady.

With Lando's reassuring embrace, the remnants of her nightmare began to fade. She nestled against him, feeling his heartbeat against her cheek. Within minutes, she was fast asleep again, feeling secure and protected.

---

When Cassy awoke the next morning, the bed beside her was empty, but a small bowl of strawberries and a note on the bedside table caught her eye. She reached for the note, unfolding it with a sleepy smile.

Went for a jog. Enjoy the strawberries. Be back soon. - Lando

Cassy popped a strawberry into her mouth, savoring its sweetness, and decided to take a shower to help wake herself up. She made her way to the bathroom, feeling slightly more steady on her feet than the previous night.

As she undressed, she realized her strength was still not fully returned. Her limbs felt heavy, and a wave of dizziness washed over her. She decided a bath would be more manageable than standing in the shower. She sat down in the tub, turning on the faucet and letting the warm water fill the space around her. The gentle stream and rising steam began to relax her muscles.

Just as she settled in, she accidentally knocked a shampoo bottle off the edge of the tub. It clattered loudly against the tile floor. The noise was startling, and she hoped it wouldn't cause too much concern.

Moments later, she heard the front door open and close. Lando must have returned from his jog. Cassy's heart raced slightly, wondering if he'd heard the noise.

"Cassy? Are you okay?" Lando's voice called out, worry evident.

Cassy squeaked in surprise and quickly replied, "I'm fine! Just a shampoo bottle fell, that's all."

There was a brief silence, and then Lando responded, "Alright, if you're sure. I'll be just outside if you need anything."

Cassy sighed in relief and focused on relaxing in the bath. The warm water and the quiet of the apartment began to ease her tension again. She closed her eyes, letting the heat soothe her muscles and the events of the past days drift away.