A surprising realization dawned on me when I woke up the following day. At some point during the night, Shade and I had begun holding hands under the pillows above our heads. His grip was firm, almost as if he was afraid to let go.
Gently, I leaned over, whispering his name. "Shade."
He startled awake, his reflex pulling my hand against his chest and jerking me across the bed towards him. Suddenly, I was inches from his face, my body pressed against his. I could feel the rapid beat of his heart under my hand, his breaths coming out in short gasps. The moment's intensity was disorienting, yet I found myself unexpectedly aroused by the closeness.
I remained still, letting him hold my hand, now captured between both of his, pressed against his chest. His wide eyes darted around the room, p
