Cole's POV
I stare at her a long moment. I am playing with fire. I have no business sitting next to her while she sleeps. But who am I to deny her? "Yeah, sure." I sit on the bed and reach for her hand.
She smiles, turning on her side. "You are a great friend, Cole. The best."
"I know."
Unfortunately, that is no longer good enough for me. It has not been for a very long time.
I say nothing, though, deciding that now is not the time since she is still recovering. I just hold her hand until her grip on mine relaxes, and she starts snoring softly.
Even then, I do not let go. Instead, I press her hand to my lips. Then I slip under the covers next to her, watching her sleep until my own eyelids fall shut.
Do not worry, Seraphina. I am not going anywhere. I am staying right here.
"THEY A
