Feeling Ruby Gregory's tenderness and obedience, Steve Burton unconsciously tightened his arms, drawing her into his embrace.
Ruby's sobs gradually diminished. Having cried for so long, she felt lazy and exhausted through her whole body, unwilling to move. Her mind grew hazy, and she leaned against Steve's shoulder, slowly closing her eyes.
Steve's hand patted her back irregularly and without rhythm, yet it allowed Ruby to relax her body and mind bit by bit. Soon her breathing became steady and even, and she fell into a quiet, peaceful sleep in his arms.
Gradually, Steve stopped patting her back, burying his head in the nook of her neck, inhaling her faint fragrance and slowly closing his eyes.
Outside the window, the starlight gradually dimmed, and even the chirping of insects faded away.
The entire world was plunged into a silent stillness.
Steve held Ruby closely the entire time.
