PLAYING WITH FIRE

Chapter 45: Carina Apartment

A/N: Mentioned of period
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Maya gratefully took Carina's offered hand
and slid into the passenger seat, the thought of resting her tired body bringing her some comfort. She closed her eyes for a moment, her mind already imagining the softness and warmth of Carina's bed.
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Carina closed the door and walked to the driver's side, silently noting the signs of fatigue on her girlfriend's face. As she got in and started the car, she reached over and gently squeezed Maya's hand, hoping to offer some reassurance.

The drive back to her apartment passed in silence, Carina occasionally stealing glances at Maya, her heart filled with concern for Maya's well-being.

Maya's exhaustion continued to weigh on her, her eyelids fluttering open and closed as she fought against sleep. The comfort of Carina's car and the soothing motion lulled her into a drowsy state, her head occasionally lolling against the window.

Carina noticed Maya's struggle to stay awake and smiled softly. "You can sleep, Maya," she murmured gently. "We're almost there. You look like you're about to drop."

Maya mumbled something unintelligible in her sleepy state, her words blending together, but she didn't protest. She leaned into Carina's touch, appreciating her girlfriend's understanding and supportive nature. With a small nod, she closed her eyes, letting the drowsiness take over, knowing that soon she would be able to rest in the comfort of Carina's home.

Carina continued to drive, her focus on the road and getting Maya back to her apartment safely. She occasionally stole glances at her girlfriend, the sight of Maya dozing off in her passenger seat bringing a smile to her face. It reminded her how hardworking and dedicated Maya was, and how important it was for her to rest and recover when she could.

After a few more minutes, they finally reached Carina's apartment building. Carina parked the car and turned off the engine, gently nudging Maya's shoulder to wake her up. "Maya, we're here," she said softly, her voice filled with tenderness.

Maya stirred, her eyes slowly opening as she registered Carina's words. "Hmm? We're here?" she mumbled sleepily, her voice slurred with exhaustion.

Carina nodded, a small, fond smile on her lips. "Yeah, we're at my place. You can go crash on my bed now. You look wrecked."

Maya rubbed her eyes sleepily, a tired smile playing on her lips. "Good. Bed. Need bed."

With Carina's help, Maya climbed out of the car, her legs feeling heavy and her body yearning for rest. They made their way into the apartment building and up to Carina's door.

Carina's apartment was spacious and well-appointed, with high ceilings, hardwood floors, and a modern but cozy aesthetic.

The main living area was open plan, the kitchen flowing into a comfortable seating area with a large sofa and a wall of windows letting in plenty of natural light.

There were also a few personal touches, such as a collection of books on a nearby shelf and photographs of Carina and her friends and family on the walls.

Carina led Maya through the apartment, guiding her to the bedroom. The bedroom was a sanctuary of tranquility with a king-sized bed, soft linens, and a large window that overlooked the city.

The room was cozy and inviting, with a few items of clothing placed on a nearby chair and a couple of empty mugs on the bedside table. A door led to the attached en suite bathroom, where Carina's beauty products and toiletries were neatly organized.

Carina turned to Maya, who looked ready to collapse. She reached out and gave her a gentle, reassuring smile. "You go take a shower if you want, or I can draw you a bath. Then, you can get right into bed."