[In the Shadows of Love] ~ Pedri.Gonzalez

Chapter 22

Pedri and Emily went to Emily's home to gather some clothes and pick up her dog, Leo. Once they had everything, Pedri drove them back to his house where Emily would be staying.

As they arrived, Pedri helped Emily relax on the couch, saying, "I'll get the suitcase and come back." Emily nodded and began to relax, playing with Leo while she waited for Pedri to return.

Pedri came back after putting Emily's clothes away and went downstairs. "So, what do you want to do?" he asked Emily.

Emily smiled softly and said, "Honestly, I just want to relax for a bit. Maybe we can watch a movie together?"

Pedri nodded, "Sounds perfect. I'll set it up. You just rest." He then prepared the living room for a cozy movie time.

After the movie finished, Pedri noticed Emily had fallen asleep with her head on his legs. Gently, he picked her up and carried her to the bedroom. Leo came running with him, and Pedri whispered, "Shh, Leo boy, Mommy is sleeping."

Pedri carefully laid Emily on the bed and covered her with the sheets. He started gently playing with her hair and said softly, "How could someone be so beautiful when they sleep?" He looked at Leo, who had jumped onto the bed and was now snuggling close to Emily.

Pedri smiled at Leo and said, "Take good care of her, buddy." He then went to take a quick shower and changed into comfy clothes for sleep.

While Pedri was in the bathroom brushing his teeth, he suddenly heard Emily screaming, "No, no, please, stay away!"

Pedri rushed to her side and saw she was having a nightmare. He came close to her, saying softly, "Emily, my love, you're having a nightmare. Wake up."

Emily woke up, startled and scared. Pedri gently held her, whispering, "It's okay, I'm here. You're safe now."

Emily broke into tears, sobbing, "Pedri, he was here. He tried to—"

Pedri gently cut her off, pulling her into a comforting embrace. "Shh, it's okay, Emily. He can't hurt you anymore. You're safe here with me."