It was a few hours before the busy day ahead, and I knew he needed rest more than anything. His mind was always so crowded with worrisome thoughts. I asked him to stay instead of going back to the mansion.
"Stay, don't go, Benjamin," I said softly, just after my mother exchanged greetings with him and returned to bed.
He smiled—a rare, genuine smile. "Why not? This is the first time you've asked me to stay ever since I've known you, Erica."
I felt a warmth spread through me at his words. "You need the rest, Benjamin. You've been through so much, and I don't want you to leave."
He nodded, his eyes softening. "Alright, I'll stay. For you."
++
