The Exchange Deal (TBS: Book 1)

Chapter 14 - Right Next to Him

My mind was floating somewhere. Perhaps I was dreaming... Dreaming with someone on my side, lying right next to me and hugging me so tight. I felt his touch that sent shivers down to my spine. The hard yet gentle hand caressing my skin gave me an assurance that I am safe. His burning breath made my body-flame awaken.

For a long time ago, my heart was frozen 'til he came.

Contentment is what I feel everytime he gives me sweet kisses. I... I honestly love to be with him... to lie down with... Gavin... even if it is just a dream... This dream is far better than reality.

Baby... I heard his voice like for real.

Hmm... I hummed.

Thank you...

What for? Nako-confuse ako. Nakalutang pa rin kasi yung isipan ko. Kahit sa panaginip, rinig ko pa rin yung boses ni Gavin.

For taking care of me...

I smiled. My eyes still shut just to feel every moment with him. Afraid to wake up and realize he's gone... I couldn't take it.

"It's past eleven in the evening, hindi ka ba nagugutom?" I almost laughed as I heard his half-worried voice. Para talaga kasing totoo na katabi ko siya.

But...

Someone kissed my lips sweetly...

Rubbed my arm gently...

And...

Hugged me tightly...

Wait...

Where am I?

What...

What is he doin' in my room?

Quickly, I opened my eyes. Though my vision was unclear, I knew already it was Gavin, the burning breath... the magnetic touch and even his irresistible soft lips. I... I couldn't believe I'm lying right next to him.

"Gavin...?" I asked, confusing.

"Hi, Baby..." He smiled and gave me sweet kisses on the forehead. Am I dreaming? What happened?

"What are you doing in my room, Berrones?" I retorded, closing my eyes again just to clear my thoughts. Seeing him beside me gave me headaches. I was trying to figure out what was happening.

"Baby, are you okay? Alam kong inaantok ka pa, just go back to sleep," he whispered. Oh man! He is really going to kill me with his words!

My weary eyes opened again and quickly jolted away from his burning touch.

"What are you doing here?" inis kong tanong sa kanya. Kahit medyo antok pa, mabilis akong bumangon at bahagyang lumayo sa kama kung saan siya nakahiga.

He smirked. "Babe, last time I checked this is my room."

Dammit! He's right! This isn't my room! That is not my bed!

"I... I think y-you're okay now. Uuwi na ako," nauutal kong sabi.

"Please stay, Soph." Bumangon siya at lumapit sa akin. "I... I need you here..." He sighed before continuing to speak. "by my side... Please..." Then held my hands as if he was holding my heart forever.

"P-Pero..." I shook my head. Being with him alone in his room...? That's a bad idea.

"Soph, nangako ka sa akin na sasamahan mo ako dito ngayon... Just... just for tonight... Please..." It broke my heart upon hearing him begging my touch, my comfort. I must admit, I would love to take care of him. But...