Dangerously Close (Aris x Reader)

79) Late Night Missions

I’m exhausted. That I can't even begin to deny. My eyes are heavy, begging to stay closed as I went unconscious.

The rest of my body told a different story. My heart was racing, beating out of my chest like I had escaped a hit. My hands were shaking as energy flowed through my veins more than blood. My skin was ice cold as I kept shuddering, the overwhelming familiar feeling growing stronger. I found myself looking at Nameless and Aris every few minutes to make sure they were breathing before staring outside again.

There's nothing. Not one speck or hint of life.

That's not what my gut tells me though. People can hide. Predators can blend into the shadows, waiting to pounce on the unsuspecting.

I’m always suspecting something now. I was fine, but now something is wrong. I know it. If I want something not to be wrong, hiding under the covers isn't going to solve anything.

Looking down at Aris again, I held my breath as he had his arm around me and head rested on my chest. Of course he chose the most difficult position to escape from.

Tensing up against my will, I slowly exhaled to calm myself. Even if he wakes up, I can just say I got hot. He’d roll off of me, pass out again, and I’ll be able to leave. Easy peasy.

Lightly grabbing the back of his hand, I raised it barely an inch. Somehow he didn't wake up, his breathing as even as before. As swiftly as possible, I placed it on his side.

Now for the actual hard part.

Holding my breath again, I raised my head and placed my hand behind me. Managing a tight grip on my pillow, I pulled it out while still holding the posture. The second I did, gravity was trying to fight me, doing its best to make my head fall. While it tends to be my strongest opponent, I’ve been better more often. Not all the time but at the very least when it mattered. And I’d say that right now is just that.

Sliding my free hand under him, I held his head in my palms as I moved to the side while making sure it was still. He nuzzled his face into it, making me freeze as I stared at him.

His shoulders were still rising and falling asleep, and his eyes were still shut. Wow. Even in his sleep, he worries me. That has to deserve some kind of award.

Moving an inch more, I was on the edge of the bed, successfully away from him. Taking the pillow, I placed it exactly where I was a minute ago. To my thankfulness, it was the perfect height. Talk about good luck.

Rubbing my thumb over his cheek, I let myself frown. Here’s the one I love more than anything, and I don't know whether or not my fears are real. That means I don't know whether or not I’ll leave him.

I don't want to. I think I can say with full confidence that I’d rather die.

Reluctantly sliding my hand away, I shook my head at myself before leaning down. Lightly pulling his hair back, I softly kissed his temple.

Realizing I wouldn't leave if I stayed here, I finally stood. Grabbing the blanket, I tugged them over him, placing them over his shoulders.

Time to take a look at, well, I don't know yet. All there is to do is wait and see.

Already having my weapon in my hair, I turned away from his sleeping figure, keeping my feet flat. Walking past my stuff, I didn't dare to look back as I grabbed my flashlight in the side pocket of my bag and tucked it into my waistband.

Just a few more inches to go.

My heart was racing with the fear of being caught by either him or whatever's watching me. One would obviously be worse, but I’d prefer neither. Even then, he has no reason to be concerned. I’ll be just fine. After all, I always have been and always am.