*Lena*
The silence stretches around us, thick and comforting, as the world outside fades into the backdrop of our small motel room. I lean into Zac’s warmth, his presence a balm for the chaos of the day. But as the evening deepens, I feel an unexpected pang of loneliness creeping in, a need for connection that goes beyond words.
“I think we should both get some rest,” he says eventually, his voice soft but laced with concern. He shifts slightly, creating a small gap between us that sends a flutter of anxiety through me.
“Wait,” I blurt out, surprising myself. “Can you… can you stay for a little longer? Maybe even sleep here?”
Zac’s brow furrows, and he studies me closely, searching for any sign of hesitation. “Are you sure?” His tone is gentle, but there’s an intensity in his gaze that
