Daddy's Precious Little Girl

Saturday

Ashlynn's POV

    I woke up feeling warm and safe, the familiar scent of something comforting wrapping around me like a cozy blanket. For a moment, I lingered in the softness of sleep, enjoying the warmth surrounding me. But when I opened my eyes, confusion washed over me. The room looked unfamiliar, and a flutter of nervousness bubbled in my stomach.

As I blinked, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep, flashes of memories from the night before began to surface. I recalled Ethan putting me to sleep in the most beautiful nursery, reading me a story about a girl who became a princess. His voice had been soothing, like a gentle lullaby, wrapping around me as I drifted into slumber. I could almost hear the cadence of his words echoing in my mind, and for a moment, I felt a pang of longing for that comfort.

Then I remembered waking up scared and alone, the shadows of the night creeping in on me. The darkness had felt suffocating, and I had struggled against the panic that rose in my throat. Just when I felt the panic rising, Ethan had been there again, his strong arms lifting me and carrying me to his room, his presence like a lighthouse in a stormy sea.

With those memories swirling in my mind, I turned my head slightly and caught sight of him. My heart settled. His strong, protective figure anchored me, chasing away the unease. I could see the way his chest rose and fell as he slept, a rhythmic assurance that I was safe.

Then more memories continued to flood back, the recollection of Marcy's angry face and the scuffle we had shared hit me like a wave, and I couldn't help but whimper softly, my voice barely escaping my lips.

"Hey, sweet girl," Ethan murmured, stirring awake as he felt me move. He opened his eyes and instantly wrapped his arms around me, pulling me close. "It's okay. You're safe. Everything's alright."

His cuddles enveloped me in warmth and reassurance. I melted into his embrace, feeling his kiss on my forehead. "You're alright, precious girl. Did you have another bad dream?" His soothing voice washed over me, calming my racing heart.

After a few moments, I took a deep breath, feeling the lingering effects of the night fade just a bit. "No, just bad memories." I admitted softly, my voice barely above a whisper.

Ethan just cuddled with me for a while before gently asking, "How are you feeling this now?"

I shrugged, unsure how to put my feelings into words. The morning light filtered through the window, casting a soft glow in the room. I was still a little scared but felt comforted by Ethan's presence. The warmth radiating from him was a balm to my frayed nerves.

"How about we get you dressed and ready for the day? That sound good to you?" he asked, keeping his tone light and encouraging.

I nodded, grateful for his care, even though my stomach felt a little fluttery. "Okay," I replied softly.

Ethan lifted me into his arms, carrying me into the nursery next to his bedroom. I felt safe nestled against him, the warmth of his body comforting me.

Once we reached the nursery, he opened the closet door and rummaged through the clothes. I watched him, my heart swelling at how thoughtful he was, always making sure I had everything I needed.

When he pulled out a cute purple sweater and dark blue jeans, my eyes lit up. I reached out to touch them, feeling how soft the fabric was. "Those are nice," I whispered, unable to hide my excitement.

"Let's get you dressed, then," he said, his voice warm and inviting.

As he helped me into the clothes, I couldn't help but feel a wave of happiness. The softness of the sweater against my skin was comforting, and the jeans fit perfectly. "I love them!" I said, a smile spreading across my face.