The simplicity of it caught me off guard. I closed the notebook and leaned back, exhaustion finally overtaking the adrenaline.
Caleb stayed with me until my eyes started to droop, then helped me upstairs, careful and unhurried. At my door, he paused, searching my face.
“I’m coming back tomorrow with more soup,” he said quietly.
I nodded.
He brushed a thumb against my cheek and leaned down to kiss me but I put a hand up between us. I gestured to my throat then him.
Caleb smiled. “We can be sick together, as long as I get to see you tomorrow, and every day after.”
I had a tired laugh.
He leaned down and gave me a gentle kiss. “Go inside, get some sleep and text me in the morning what soups you like. I want to make sure you get something you actually want.”
I smiled happily and nodded.
“Good night Kitty,” Caleb murmured before heading down the hallway.
I let myself into the apartment where Lydia and Meri waited. Lydia gave me a hug while a more practical Meri held up cold remedies. I leaned on Lydia and let them take care of me, happy and feeling like I truly belonged.
