Broken

Chapter 34: Yours

The morning sun was just beginning to rise, casting a soft glow across the room. Zac and Fatima were still on the couch, having not moved from their position all night. Zac hadn't slept, his mind restless with the weight of the truths she had shared the night before. He watched her intently, his elbow resting on the headrest, his face propped up on his hand. Fatima's face was turned towards him, her eyes closed in peaceful sleep.

A stray strand of her hair had fallen across her face, and Zac gently brushed it away. The soft touch caused her to stir, her eyes flickering open to meet his.

"Good morning," Zac whispered, his voice soft yet filled with the warmth of affection.

"Morning," she replied groggily, her voice still heavy with sleep. She stretched slightly, sitting up as she looked around the room. "How long have I been asleep?"

"All night," Zac answered, his eyes never leaving her as he remained in the same position.

Fatima blinked a few times, processing his words. "What time is it?"

"Six," he said, his tone calm as if he had been waiting all night to tell her.

She relaxed back into the couch, realizing it was still early. The events of the previous night lingered in her mind, but the morning felt like a fresh start. "Come join me in the shower," Zac suggested, his voice holding a hint of playfulness.

Fatima couldn't help but smile, a lightness in her expression as she nodded. "Okay."

He leaned in, capturing her lips in a kiss that started soft but quickly deepened as she placed her hand on his cheek, pulling him closer. When they finally pulled away, Zac stood, holding his hand out to her. "Come on."

She chuckled softly, taking his hand as he helped her up. Zac led her into his bedroom and then into the bathroom. He started the shower, the sound of running water filling the space. Without a word, he handed her the toothbrush he kept just for her. Fatima took it, their morning routine flowing seamlessly as they brushed their teeth side by side while the water heated.

Zac moved over to the shower, checking the temperature with a quick glance. "It's ready—"

"Come here," Fatima interrupted, holding her hand out to him.

He gave her a curious look but didn't hesitate to take her hand and approach her. As soon as he was close enough, she wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned up, pressing a soft kiss to his lips.

"Thank you," she murmured, her voice filled with emotion.

Zac pulled back slightly, confusion evident in his eyes. "Now why are you thanking me?"

"For making me feel heard and seen. I've never felt so safe," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper as she looked up at him.

Zac's heart swelled at her words. He cupped her face, his thumb brushing across her cheek. "Because I love you. And I'd do absolutely anything for you," he said, his voice full of truth and love.

Fatima's smile was radiant as she met his gaze. He leaned in and placed another tender kiss on her lips, sealing the moment.

They began to undress, their movements slow and intimate. As Fatima slipped off her clothes, she paused and gave Zac a serious look. "Shower cap, please," she said sternly.

Zac chuckled, the sound deep and genuine. "Of course," he said, handing her the shower cap he had bought specifically for her. She took it with a playful smile, wrapping up her hair before putting it on.

With everything in place, they stepped into the shower together, the warm water cascading down their bodies. The steam filled the room, enveloping them in a cocoon of warmth and intimacy. Zac pulled Fatima close, his arms wrapping around her as the water ran over them.