the fire between us

chapter 43

Content Warning: This narrative contains intense and potentially distressing themes, including a car accident, panic, and injuries. Readers who may be sensitive to topics related to trauma, emergency situations, or physical distress should approach with caution. I encourage you to prioritize your well-being and take breaks if needed. Remember, it's okay to step away and take care of yourself. ⚠️

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As the car hums along the highway, the gentle vibrations lull Nora and me into a peaceful slumber. Sharing a pair of AirPods, soft music plays between us, making the world fade away into a dreamy blur. I nestle deeper into the blanket, letting the warmth and the quiet of the early morning sink in.

Hours pass, and when I stir awake, the first thing I notice is the faint light filtering through the window. The world outside is a winter wonderland, snow-covered fields stretching as far as I can see, the sun just beginning to rise on the horizon.

I blink a few times, still groggy, before noticing that Martinus is now behind the wheel. His hands grip the steering wheel lightly, eyes focused on the road ahead. Marcus, in the passenger seat, looks equally worn out, his head leaning back against the seat, eyes half-closed. Both boys seem tired from the long drive, but Martinus keeps going, his determination clear.

I sit up straight, brushing the sleep from my eyes as I glance over at Martinus. "I can take over if you want me to?" I offer softly, not wanting to disturb the quiet atmosphere in the car.

Martinus glances over, his lips curving into a tired but affectionate smile. "It's okay, baby," he says, his voice warm despite the exhaustion. 

"Let me drive a little," I insist gently, leaning forward as I place a hand on Martinus's shoulder. "It's okay, really." My voice is soft but firm, and I catch Marcus nodding in agreement from the passenger seat.

Martinus hesitates, his tired eyes flickering between Marcus and me before finally sighing. "Alright," he relents, his lips curving into a grateful smile. "But only because you're offering," he teases lightly, trying to keep the mood light.

When we find a safe spot to pull over, Martinus slows the car to a halt. Marcus quickly unbuckles his seatbelt, getting out and circling the car to take my spot in the back. I can see the relief on Martinus's face as he stretches before moving to the passenger seat, finally letting himself relax after hours behind the wheel.

I climb into the driver's seat, adjusting it to my height and settling in. The warmth of the car and the quiet sounds of the road ahead are comforting, but the responsibility of guiding us the rest of the way keeps me alert. Glancing over, I notice Martinus leaning his head back, his eyes closed but a soft smile lingering on his lips.

"Thank you," he murmurs, his voice drowsy but full of affection.

As the car settles into a steady rhythm on the road, I notice that Marcus is fast asleep in the back, his head leaning against the window. The peaceful rise and fall of his breathing fill the quiet space. Up front, however, Martinus still has his eyes open, watching me from the passenger seat, his gaze soft but attentive.

I smile, glancing at him briefly before turning my eyes back to the road. "Martinus, you can close your eyes for a few minutes. It's okay," I assure him gently.

He shifts slightly in his seat, stretching his legs out. "I don't wanna leave you lonely," he murmurs, his voice low and warm, though I can tell he's fighting the pull of sleep.

I let out a soft laugh, feeling warmth bloom in my chest at his sweet words. "Martinus, it's fine," I say, stealing another quick glance at him. "I've got the road, and you've been driving for hours. Get some rest."