The first hints of dawn crept through the blinds, casting soft shadows across Vivian’s face as she slept. I couldn’t help but study her, the peacefulness that softened her features as she lay curled under the covers. Her guard was down, and the faint trace of vulnerability pulled something deep within me—a need to protect, to be the kind of steady presence she could rely on.
She didn’t have work today, so I’d let her sleep in. There were things that needed doing, anyway. Her kitchen was practically empty, and a trip to the store would sort that out. But there was something else on my mind, something I needed to address. I wanted to understand her more, to avoid any missteps, and the best person to talk to was Leah. If anyone knew why she had her guard up, it was her best friend.
Slipping
