Fates Entwined

Chapter 12: Whispers in the Night

Risha stood awkwardly in Sol's living room, unsure of what to do. Sol was half-asleep on the couch, her cheeks flushed from the whiskey.

"I should go," Risha murmured, more to herself than to Sol.

"Stay," Sol whispered, her voice soft but firm. She turned her head slightly, her sleepy gaze locking onto Risha. "Please. Just... stay for a while."

Risha hesitated, then nodded. "Alright, but you need to get to bed. Sleeping here isn't good for your back."

Sol chuckled lightly, but let Risha guide her to her room. The space was cozy, with soft lighting and a faint scent of lavender. Risha helped Sol settle into bed, pulling the blanket over her.

As Sol lay there, her eyes half-closed, she mumbled, "You're really kind, Rish. I don't know how you do it."

Risha smiled faintly, brushing a strand of hair out of Sol's face. "It's nothing. Get some rest."

She turned to leave, but Sol's voice stopped her. "Don't go."

Risha turned back, confused. "What?"

"Stay here. Just... sleep next to me," Sol said, her voice barely audible. "I don't want to be alone tonight."

Risha's heart skipped a beat. She knew this was uncharted territory, but something in Sol's vulnerability tugged at her.

"Okay," Risha said softly. She hesitated for a moment before slipping off her shoes and climbing into the bed.

Risha lay stiffly on her side, her back to Sol, staring at the ceiling. She could hear Sol's breathing slow and steady as she drifted closer to sleep. But Risha's thoughts were racing.

The room was chilly, and Risha instinctively pulled the blanket tighter around her. She turned her head slightly to glance at Sol, who looked peaceful in her sleep. Her dark hair spilled across the pillow, her features softened in the dim light.

Risha's gaze lingered, taking in the curve of Sol's cheek, the gentle rise and fall of her chest. She felt an unexpected ache in her chest—a mix of affection and confusion.

As the room grew colder, Risha hesitated before sliding a little closer to Sol. She gently draped her arm over Sol's waist, hoping to share some warmth.

Sol stirred slightly, her body instinctively curling toward Risha. The movement was subtle, but it was enough to close the gap between them.

Risha froze, her heart pounding, but when Sol nestled closer, resting her head near Risha's shoulder, she relaxed. Carefully, she tightened her hold, her hand resting lightly on Sol's arm.

The room was silent except for the sound of their breathing. Risha found herself calming down, her racing thoughts replaced by a quiet sense of peace.

Sol murmured something in her sleep, a soft, incoherent sound that made Risha smile. She shifted slightly, her face brushing against Sol's hair. The scent of vanilla lingered, faint and comforting.

For the first time in what felt like ages, Risha felt safe. She didn't know what tomorrow would bring, but in this moment, everything felt right.

Soon, the warmth of Sol's presence lulled her into a deep, dreamless sleep, the two of them wrapped in a quiet embrace.