I watched Aria as she lay there, finally resting peacefully after the turmoil of the past days. Her breathing was soft, her face untroubled, and for once, she looked like nothing could touch her. But the thought of her nightmares, of what lurked in the shadows of her past, kept me rooted in place. I should leave—I knew she needed to sleep, undisturbed—but some instinct wouldn't let me. What if the dreams returned? What if she woke up and I wasn't here?
GOODNESS, I thought, running a hand over my face, trying to shake the overwhelming protectiveness gnawing at me.
Finally, with a deep breath, I turned and walked out of her room, careful not to make any noise that might wake her. Claire was waiting downstairs, looking weary but relieved.
"Aria's sleeping soundly," I told her, giving her a reassuring nod. "You should rest too, Claire. Make sure to take your medication before bed. I'll check in tomorrow morning."
