The windows were open to let in some of the cool night air and just enough light for me to make out her tiny figure on the bed.
The little innocent didn’t even stir, so trusting that nothing would happen to her in the night—as she should be.
I would never fucking let anything happen to her. Never again.
I moved to the recliner and sat down. And I watched her while she slept.
I stayed there the entire night, only coming to attention when I saw her shift on her bed once the dawn light hit the window.
I couldn’t see her while she was awake. Not now. Not the way I was feeling.
I left.