One of Them Girls

Chapter 9

The rest of the drive was peaceful, a comfortable silence settling between you as Tyler drove through the quiet streets. You found yourself glancing over at him every now and then, the soft glow of the dashboard lights casting a warm light over his face. There was something reassuring about being with him like you were exactly where you were supposed to be.

When you arrived at the motel, Tyler parked the truck and turned off the engine. He looked over at you, his expression gentle. "You sure you're okay with this?"

You nodded, feeling a sense of calm. "Yeah, I'm sure."

Tyler's room was quiet except for the soft hum of the air conditioner as you and Tyler stepped inside his motel room. You hadn't planned on staying overnight, so you didn't bring anything to sleep in. The realization hit you as you glanced down at your jeans, already feeling uncomfortable about sleeping in them.

Tyler seemed to notice your hesitation. "You good?" he asks, his voice gentle as he watches you.

You offer a small smile, nodding, though the discomfort must show on your face. "Yeah, I'm fine. I just didn't plan on staying, so..."

He nodded, understanding dawning in his eyes. "I got you," he said, as he moved over to his bag on the floor near the bed. After he rummaged through it for a moment, he pulled out a soft, worn t-shirt and a pair of athletic shorts, holding them out to you with a reassuring smile. "Here, you can wear these. They'll be more comfortable than jeans."

You took the clothes from him. The simple gesture, his thoughtfulness, made your heart swell a little. "Thanks," you said softly.

Tyler nodded and gestured toward the bathroom. "Take your time," he said, giving you the space to change.

You headed into the bathroom and closed the door behind you. As you slipped into the t-shirt, which fell slightly past your hips, and pulled on the shorts, you felt a sense of comfort. The clothes were loose, and you could smell the faint scent of Tyler's cologne on the fabric. It was a small thing, but it made you feel closer to him.

When you stepped out of the bathroom, Tyler was already by the bed, pulling back the covers. He looked up as you emerged, his eyes softening as he took you in. He walked over to you, his eyes meeting yours.

"Do you need anything? Water, extra blankets?" he asked.

You shook your head, smiling at his thoughtfulness. "I'm good, really."

Tyler nodded, understanding. "Okay. We can just relax, maybe watch some TV or something."

You both settled into the bed. You leaned back against the headboard, and Tyler sat beside you, his arm casually draped over your shoulder.

"What do you want to watch?" Tyler asked, flipping through the channels with the remote.

You shrugged, leaning your head against his shoulder. "I'm not picky. Whatever you want is fine."

He chuckled softly. "Careful, I might make you watch some random documentary about storms."

You smiled, "I wouldn't mind that. It's kind of your thing."

Tyler paused, turning to look at you with a warm smile. "You're really okay with this? Being here, I mean?"

You turned your head and your eyes met his gaze. "Yeah, I'm more than okay with it. I'm glad I'm here."

He nodded, his smile widening. "Me too."

For a while, the two of you watched the screen, though neither of you was truly paying attention to what was on. Instead, you found yourselves talking quietly, sharing thoughts, stories, and soft laughter.