248

RONAN

She was quiet for a long time. I didn’t know if she believed me. I didn’t know if she ever could. But as I held her in the dark, I knew that I would do whatever it took to heal her wounds.

Slowly, I felt her relax completely against me. I knew she had fallen asleep. I continued to hold her, my fingers gently running through her hair. I didn't want to disturb her, but I needed her to know I was there.

She shifted slightly in her sleep, her hand curling into the fabric of my shirt. I felt a small pang in my chest. It was a feeling I wasn’t ready to name.

I watched her for a long time, the way her eyelashes fluttered against her cheeks. She looked so small and vulnerable. I realized how much I had taken for granted. I had demanded so much from her, and I had given so little in return. Only pain.

As the first light of dawn came through the window, I felt her move again. Her eyes opened slowly. She looked up at me.

“You’re still here?” she asked, uncertain.

I nodded, my hand touching