Tessy eventually fell asleep, her breathing soft and even as she lay curled into Roman's side. Her warmth seeped into him, her scent a calming balm to the constant unease that churned beneath his skin.
He kept his arm securely around her, her cheek pressed gently against his chest, and though every inch of him wanted to relax, sleep evaded him like a ghost in the mist.
Williams had told him she would not be pulled into the dream realm again, had assured him with the certainty only someone of his experience could carry. But the fear didn't leave Roman. It was a stubborn ache buried deep within his chest, pressing on his ribs every time he looked at her.
Every hour or so, he stirred from his restless daze, his body jolting awake to check her temperature, to press a soft kiss to her temple, to ensure she was still comfortable. Still safe.
Morning eventually came, the golden light slanting through the windows, warming the edge of the sheets.