Chapter 5: Small Mercies

"Natalie, wake up."

Candlelight flickered in the room. Adam’s face hovered above me, concern in his eyes.

Memories of the wedding night crashed over me. My whole body tensed, then slowly relaxed when I saw it was just Adam.

"You had a nightmare?" His voice was low and warm, steadying me in the dark.

I was soaked in sweat, pajamas clinging to my skin.

"Yeah. Sorry I woke you."

He raised a brow. "Woke me? You were screaming like you saw a ghost."

I hugged my arms, eyes down. "I dreamed about evil spirits."

A maid’s voice drifted through the door, asking if a doctor was needed.

Adam told her to fetch hot water. He rolled up his sleeves, wrung out a towel, and gently wiped my face himself.

The clean heat of the towel stung my nose, the kindness almost undoing me.

Once, I’d screamed until my throat was raw and no one came. Now, even a nightmare brought comfort.

I pressed my face into the towel, breathing in the clean scent, fighting tears.

I changed into dry pajamas behind the screen. When I came out, the bed was freshly made, dove-gray quilts pulled tight.

I crawled back into bed as Adam climbed in on the other side. I scooted further in, giving him space.

"Don’t worry," Adam said, smiling a little, his tone dry. "I’m not exactly in top shape tonight. I won’t bother you."

"I’m not worried about that," I said, cheeks warm.

He reached over, smoothing my hair with a surprisingly gentle hand. "Get some sleep, silly girl." He turned away, his back broad and reassuring.

I tucked myself under the quilt, listening to his steady breathing. For the first time in years, I let myself drift off, safe and warm.