“M-Maximus? Are you… are you awake?”
The door opened right away. Maximus stood there, shirtless, his eyes instantly sharp and alert when he moved closer to me.
“Atasha?”
Another thunder roared and that almost made me jump.
“P-Please…” My voice broke as I spoke.
He didn’t even think twice. He pulled me inside and closed the door.
“I… I don’t like thunderstorms. They scare me. Can I… can I stay here?” My words came out shaky and desperate.
“Shh… it’s okay.” He cupped my cheeks, making me look at him. His voice was calm. “You’re safe, Atasha. You’re safe…”
“I can stay on your sofa,” I whispered quickly. “Just let me stay in the room.”
I just don’t wanna be alone! I hate being alone.
“I’m here. Don’t be scared. I’m here.”
He guided me toward the bed, even when I tried to insist th
