I was in a deep, peaceful sleep when I felt Maddie stir beside me. Groggily, I opened my eyes and glanced at the clock. It was around 4 in the morning. I turned to see Maddie sitting up slightly, her face a mix of frustration and fatigue.
"Maddie?" I whispered, my voice thick with sleep. "What's wrong?"
She sighed, running a hand through her hair. "I can't sleep. My mind is racing, and I just... can't seem to relax."
I blinked a few times, trying to wake up fully. Even though I was tired, I couldn't stand to see her so distressed. "Do you want me to help you relax?" I asked softly, my hand gently brushing her arm.
Maddie looked at me, a mix of hope and exhaustion in her eyes. "Would you?"
"Of course," I replied, leaning in to kiss her forehead. "But you have to be quiet, okay?"
She nodded, a small smile forming on her lips. "I'll try."
I shifted closer to her, my hand sliding under the covers to find her warm skin. I started with gentle, soothing touches, my fingers tracing light patterns on her abdomen. Maddie's breathing began to slow, and I could feel her start to relax under my touch.
I moved my hand lower, my fingers exploring and caressing with deliberate, tender movements. Maddie bit her lip, trying to stifle any sound, but I could see the tension melting away from her body.
I leaned in closer, my lips brushing against her ear. "Just focus on me, Maddie. Let everything else fade away."
She nodded, her eyes closing as she surrendered to the sensations. I continued my ministrations, my touch firm yet gentle, doing my best to bring her the comfort she needed.
Maddie's breathing grew more erratic, her hands gripping the sheets tightly. I could tell she was close, and I whispered soothing words, encouraging her to let go. Finally, with a shudder and a soft, muffled cry, she came, her body trembling in release.
I held her close, my hand gently stroking her hair as she calmed down. "You did so well," I murmured, kissing her forehead again.
Maddie sighed contentedly, her eyes heavy with exhaustion but now more at peace. "Thank you, Leah. I think I can sleep now."
"Good," I whispered, pulling her closer and wrapping my arms around her. "Rest now, love."
Within minutes, Maddie was fast asleep, her breathing deep and even. I watched her for a moment, my heart swelling with love and protectiveness. Seeing her finally at peace made the loss of my own sleep more than worth it.
I closed my eyes, feeling the warmth of her body against mine, and allowed myself to drift back into slumber. Knowing that Maddie was relaxed and resting beside me was the best comfort I could have.
The next morning, Leah and I slept in, catching up on much-needed rest. When I finally opened my eyes, the clock on my bedside table read 10:00 AM. I stretched, feeling the gentle soreness from my injuries but also a sense of peace. I turned to see Leah still beside me, her face peaceful and beautiful in the morning light.
"Morning," I murmured, smiling at her as she began to stir.
"Morning," she replied, her voice soft and warm. "Looks like we slept in."
I chuckled. "Yeah, but it was nice."
We decided to start the day with a shower, knowing it would help wake us up. Leah helped me with my waterproof protector, carefully securing it over my cast to keep it dry. She then helped me into the shower, her touch gentle and soothing.
As the warm water cascaded over us, Leah helped me wash, her hands moving tenderly through my hair and over my skin. Her touch was both caring and intimate, making the mundane task of showering feel like a comforting ritual.
