Sleep Paralysis - Josh Franchesci, You Me At Six AU (COMPLETED)

2.4

R O S E ' S  P O V

I awoke, a light sunrise peeking through the sheer curtains. I turned my head, and to my surprise, I was alone in the bed. Despite Josh's efforts, I continued to defy him and avoid him. I knew I was placing the risk of worsening my conditions, but I wanted to maintain my freedom for as long as I could.

Suddenly, a sharp, overwhelming pain shot through the entirety of my body, making me fall out of the bed. I curled into a ball as I cried out from the sensations I was experiencing. A croaky sob escaped my lips as I clutched my stomach and throat, the intense pain scorching every inch of me.

"Josh!" I desperately called, my tears blurring my vision as I turned onto my back and pulled my knees against my chest. I continued to moan as I laid helplessly on the floor. I felt isolated, lost. Josh had yet to come. I closed my eyes and screamed his name once more, the sensation becoming increasingly more unbearable. He was taking forever and I found myself becoming enraged at him amidst the hurt. He suddenly was beside me, shushing me gently as he slid his arm under my back.

"Shhh, it's okay. I'm here now. Can you open your eyes for me?" I weakly fluttered my eyes open and gazed into Josh's concerned look. His brow was furrowed as his eyes travelled my body, watching me suffer. "Where does it hurt?" he soothingly asked, softly moving his hand along my body. Another sob came from me as I hastily fisted his shirt.

"Everywhere," I cried.

"Okay, sweetheart, let's see what we can do," he cooed, lifting me up bridal style. He quickly made his way to the en suite and laid me down on the extended part of the bath. I watched through my blurred gaze as he filled up the tub quickly, scattering an unrecognisable powder in the water. After a few seconds it dissolved and Josh picked me up once more. Gently he lowered me into the water and I sat in the tub.

Gradually the pain left my body, and I returned to my normal state both physically and emotionally. I let out a sob of relief and closed my eyes.

"T-thank you," I whispered to Josh.

"No worries. I'm glad you're okay," he answered back, placing a kiss upon my temple. I felt a flash of warmth in my heart. Josh's actions this morning were conflicting. He showed care, and I couldn't help but feel the smallest bit of desire to place my trust in him. Maybe it won't hurt to test it.

I opened my eyes, feeling fully restored, and lifted myself out of the tub. I turned to face Josh who stood with a towel, and a pair of fresh clothes and underwear. He placed them on the extended section of the bath and unplugged the drain for me.

"I'll leave you to do what you need," he smiled before exiting the bathroom, shutting the door behind him. I peeled off my wet clothing, drying myself off before putting on what Josh had brought me. I dried the ends of my hair that had gotten wet before tossing the towel and clothes into the hamper and exiting the bathroom.

I walked out of the bedroom and into the living area, where Josh stood at the counter making two cups of tea. I placed myself on the side of the island counter that faced away from the kitchen. When Josh has finished, he slid me one cup as he sipped from his. I brought up the steaming mug to my face and inhaled. Peppermint - my favourite. I took a big sip and felt a sense of calmness fall over me. We drank for a bit in silence when I thought to ask him about something.

"Where were you?" I questioned, gripping the mug softly.

"Hmm?" he mused as he placed his mug onto the surface.

"When I woke up, you weren't there." A flash of remembrance appeared on his face, but he maintained a poker face.

"I had gone out onto the beach. You've spent all your time out there whilst I've spent all mine in here, so I thought I should see what had captured so much of your attention and love," he explained, his eyes flickering to the view given by the window. I nodded in acceptance of his answer and finished my tea.