Ophelia POV:-
I was still reeling in shock, unable to process the unexpected turn of events. Sebastian's gentle lips had brushed against mine, and it was as if a switch had been flipped. The suffocating grip of my panic attack began to loosen, and I felt myself slowly resurfacing from the depths of fear.
It seemed surreal, but the kiss had worked. The overwhelming anxiety that had threatened to consume me began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of calm. I couldn't shake off the vivid images that lingered in my mind, haunting reminders of the nightmare that had felt all too real. The mustard field's golden hues, the deserted forest's eerie silence – every detail had seemed so tangible, as if I'd been transported to those very places.
As Sebastian pulled back, his eyes locked onto mine, filled with concern. I realized, startled, that we were still wrapped in each other's arms. My cheeks flushed as I acknowledged my own actions; I had instinctively sought comfort in his embrace, something I'd never done before.
For the first time in what felt like an eternity, I felt seen, heard, and understood. Someone was affected by my pain, and that realization stirred a deep sense of gratitude within me. Perhaps that's why I'd hugged him, seeking solace in his presence.
Sebastian settled onto the bed in front of me, his gentle gaze never wavering. He took my hand in his, his touch warm and reassuring. "Is there something you want to tell me?" he asked softly. "Maybe I can help you." His words hung in the air, an offer of support and understanding.
I hesitated, unsure if I should unveil my deepest fears. Yet, something about Sebastian's empathetic tone put me at ease. Maybe it was the genuine concern etched on his face or the gentle pressure of his hand around mine. Whatever the reason, I decided to open up, to trust him with the secrets I'd kept hidden for so long.
I nodded, my voice barely above a whisper. "Yes, maybe I want to tell you." My eyes drifted downward, as if the memories were etched on the floor. I took a deep breath, letting the words spill out.
"I couldn't sleep, so I stepped outside into the rain. The cool droplets on my skin were soothing, but somehow, I ended up back in bed, lost in slumber." My voice trembled. "That's when the dream took hold."
"In the dream, I found myself standing in a boundless mustard field. Golden hues stretched out before me like an endless ocean. I had no recollection of how I got there or where 'there' even was. Yet, an eerie serenity enveloped me... initially." My gaze fluttered up to Sebastian's, searching for reassurance.
Sebastian's expression was intent, his eyes locked onto mine.
"What happened next?" he encouraged, his tone gentle.
I swallowed hard. "I sensed a presence around me. Someone – or something – was calling my name, 'Ophelia!' over and over. I tried to respond, but my voice was lost in the void. Fear clawed at my heart. I didn't know who or what was lurking nearby."
Sebastian's brow furrowed, concern etched on his face.
"I panicked and ran," I continued, my words tumbling out. "But no matter how far I fled, the mustard fields seemed endless. I stumbled, fell, and... and then I felt surrounded. Something was closing in from all sides." My voice cracked. "I screamed, and suddenly, I vanished from the field."
Sebastian's grip on my hand tightened.
"I found myself in a desolate forest," I whispered. "Dead trees loomed above, their branches grasping at me like skeletal fingers. The silence was suffocating, but then, I heard it again: 'Don't run away from this! Accept it!'"
Sebastian leaned forward, his eyes burning with interest.
"And?" he prompted, his voice low.
I took another deep breath. "When you promised to protect me, your name was the first that came to mind. I called out for you." My cheeks flushed.
Sebastian's expression turned contemplative, his gaze drifting inward. After a moment, he nodded resolutely.
"I stand by my words, Ophelia. A vampire's promise is binding, and to you, my mate, I swear unwavering protection." His voice resonated deep within me.
A wave of comfort washed over me, followed by an unfamiliar sense of satisfaction. I leaned into him, hesitant.
Sebastian's arms enveloped me, understanding my unspoken emotions.
Desiring closeness yet cautious of misinterpretation, I sought to maintain a delicate balance. The nightmare's lingering fear made being alone unbearable.
Sebastian gently guided me to lie down, ensuring I was comfortable. As he covered me with a sheet, his hands brushed against mine, sending a spark of reassurance. But when he turned to leave, panic resurfaced.
Without thinking, I grasped his hand, my fingers intertwining with his. His eyes widened in surprise, filled with concern. I avoided his gaze, cheeks warming.
"Please," I whispered, voice barely audible, "stay with me tonight. The dream was terrifying. I can't bear being alone." My grip loosened, releasing his hand.
Sebastian's silence was palpable as he searched my face. His expression softened, and he nodded. "Don't misunderstand me," he said firmly, reassuring himself as much as me.
I shook my head, a silent promise to respect his boundaries. Though our relationship was uncertain, I trusted Sebastian to prioritize my comfort and safety.
With a gentle smile, he settled onto the other side of the bed, maintaining a respectful distance. From his pocket, he produced a flute, its delicate notes filling the room.
The soothing melody enveloped me, calming my racing thoughts. Sebastian's presence, the flute's lullaby, and the warmth of the bed conspired against my wakefulness.
As the music wove a tranquil spell, my eyelids grew heavy. The nightmare's grip loosened, replaced by a sense of security.
Unaware of the moment I succumbed to sleep, I drifted into a peaceful slumber, lulled by the flute's sweet serenade.