>>67079548>"So... what now?" I'm fairly certain she's asking about us.>"...not sure. One day at a time?">"Alright." the conversation is a bit dry as she finishes her meal and sets the bowl back down.>She turns her head up to me, her eyes slightly pleading.>"Anon can we just...cuddle?" She's never been this skittish before. Wonder exactly what's causing these nerves.>"Sure, cmon." I scooch to the edge of the couch, making room for her to tuck in.>She accepts but moves very slowly and deliberately, almost as if she's afraid of something. She settles in as we lie together, her head resting gently on my chest.>"...this isn't too much?" Ah there it is.>I sigh a bit at her apprehension.>"I'll do this for you any time. I like this too, reminder." A content escape of air leaves her as she tucks into me. She's not scalding hot like yesterday, her fever mostly gone.>"I... didn't get to say it yesterday but you mean a lot to me, Anon." >I look down at her. She's looking at the TV while speaking.>"So much so that I was terrified you'd leave if I ever broke the facade.">She seems to have a bit more in her.>"Thank you. I mean it." extreme sincerity flows out of her. It's a bit different from her usual wall of snarky and cocky speech. I think I like it. A lot.>"You're welcome. I'm not running away from you. I promise you that." Not again. Not ever again.>Nick and I settle into a gentle cuddle, her relaxing and tucking her arms around me. My bary blanket slowly drifts away into sleep again, she's still not entirely well. I gently stroke her hair as she lies on top of me, memories still threatening to go back to high school. I've grown. I know better now. I won't hurt you, too.Fin, feel free to ask for more whenever. I can just say no if I'm not feeling it
>>67079068I've seen you ask a few times for this so next.