Grant nods but says nothing. He takes my hand again and I instantly feel better. He rubs his thumb across the back of my hand.
“I know this must be difficult for you, but it really does get better. I can promise that.”
But can I believe it?
“Thank you.” I lie back down as Grant lets go of me. I face the ceiling and close my eyes, trying to wish for a dreamless sleep. I only open them when I hear Grant walking out of my room.
He really came to check on me.
Lying there, unable to sleep, even when the sun seeps through the curtains and blankets me in warmth, I remain motionless on the bed till Grant returns. He knocks on the door before peeking his head in.
“Hey, we need to get a move on. Would you like some breakfast first?”
I shake my head before rolling in bed and trying to get up. I get up and stretch, feeling no knots at all in my muscles. This bed was the best thing ever. It's just a shame I didn't get a good night's rest.
It doesn't take me long to pack up my bag. All I do is pick out some new clothes to wear. I end up going with a dark pair of jeans and a long-sleeved top.
I take the bag downstairs to the living room where Grant is hunched over a laptop.
Man, he really likes being busy. I've got my work cut out for me with this one.
“I'm ready to go,” I say. “Is it going to be a long trip?”
Grant shakes his head without looking up. “We'll be going soon. I just want to finish up something.”
I sit down on the couch close to him, taking my time to fully scan the living room. That's when a thought occurs to me.
“Grant?”
“Hmm?”
“Did you sleep last night?”
He looks up from the laptop, and I know the answer to my question before he responds. “No.”
“It wasn't because of me, was it?”
“No,” he says in a softer voice. “I just happened to be awake when you had your nightmare.”
“So they were right about your sleep schedule… or the lack of one.”
Grant chuckles lightly. “I guess they were.” He closes the computer and stands up. “Shall we?”
Chapter 5
GRANT
I park the car in front of my house in the woods. It has received an update in the last few years.
What was once an inconspicuous townhouse is now more like a three-story cabin. It still retains its rustic charm, which I appreciate very much, especially since I spend most of my time here.
Leena steps out of the car, her face filled with awe. “Isthisyour home?”
“It's not just mine. It belongs to my pack.” I give a beckoning wave. “Come with me.”
Leena nods and follows after me. I walk up the pathway and reach the entrance of the house, opening the door for both of us.
As soon as we step inside, we're greeted by a familiar smiling face. “Grant, you're back,” Molly says. “I see you brought a guest.”
