Page 14 of Hiding Secrets (Hidden Desires Trilogy #2)

Elliott

I wake up warm and a bit more comfortable than I’ve been in the last few days.

My body doesn't feel as tense, and for a moment I forget the horrors that I went through. But it all comes rushing back to me like a ton of bricks. I’m not in my own bed, I’m not at home, and I don't even have a home anymore.

I attempt to roll over but am stopped by large arms wrapped around my waist, pulling me back in.

What the?

I look over my shoulder and see Hunter lying next to me, his breathing is slow and rhythmic.

It's weird to see him so relaxed and so…casual. Even though we’re in this house all day, he is always dressed like he has to be in a meeting at any second.

I take a moment to really take in his features.

His full lips are slightly parted, hair is messier than ever, and his toned, bare chest is pressed against my back.

For some reason, I want to bring my fingertips up and trace every curve of his muscles.

It wasn't a dream after all, Hunter did come into my room last night.

I remember his voice whispering to me those comforting words and holding me like he was trying to absorb the pain.

I thought it was all in my head, but here he is, wrapping me in his embrace in his sleep.

My stomach tosses and I get a wave of…butterflies?

Tears well up and I push his chest away from me.

Butterflies? Really, Elliott?

I can't feel those, I don't even know how to control my emotions let alone know how I’m feeling. My body wants comfort so badly right now that it’s taking any kindness that’s given.

"Good morning to you, too." He says as I push him further away.

"Why are you in my bed?"

"Kam's bed." A pang hits my gut for more than one reason, "And because you were having some sort of night terror, you wouldn't stop screaming and someone needed to make sure you were okay."

"Oh." I look down and see that my hands are still resting on his chest. "Well, thanks." I yank them away.

"Of course."

I gaze back up at him and am met with his eyes locking onto me as they scan down my body.

"Coffee?" He breathes out as he shoots out of bed.

"Sure." I turn, watching him rush out .

"I'll meet you in the kitchen." He says over his shoulder, not stopping as he continues down the hallway.

I let my body relax on the mattress for a moment, my eyes still staring at the empty doorway.

What was that?