the nightmare after (Patreon)

you had a nightmare tonight. you woke up with a start in a room that isn’t our bedroom. we’re still at the hotel, which adds another level of panic, waking up in an unfamiliar place. the only thing you have to ground yourself is me next to you, still fast asleep. you roll closer, your hand on my chest as you shake me awake. before i’m even fully awake, my arms reach out and pull you against me, seeking you as much as you are seeking me. i don’t even have to open my eyes to know what’s going on, i can feel it in the way you’re trembling, in the way you need me right now. i can tell you had a nightmare, i probably even know the cause, those houses might have been a bit too scary for you. but it’s okay, you’re safe right now, nothing can hurt you, nothing can come between me and you. so you can close your eyes and go back to sleep because you’re safe, sweetheart, i promise i won’t let another nightmare show up.