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He laughed softly, leaning down to press a gentle kiss on my lips. "Sleep, Paisley. I'll be right here."
I nodded, already half-asleep. Sliding down into the comfort of the sheets, I let out a contented sigh. The feel of the luxurious linens against my skin and the weight of the day's events pulled me quickly into the embrace of sleep.
I felt Austin's weight shift on the bed next to me, his arms wrapping around my waist, drawing me into the warmth of his embrace. Even in my drowsy state, the feeling of safety and comfort he provided was palpable.
"Sweet dreams," he whispered, his lips brushing the nape of my neck.
Drifting off, the last thing I remembered was the steady beat of his heart beneath my ear and the gentle rise and fall of his chest. With him by my side, I felt like I could face anything, and that together, we could conquer the world.
The warmth of morning sunlight gently roused me from my slumber. Blinking, my eyes focused on the intricate designs of the hotel ceiling. Austin's arm, which was thrown protectively around my waist, held me close. I smiled, pressing back into him and feeling his chest rise and fall steadily.
The events from yesterday, our passionate evening, the chaotic feelings upon my return to the city, it all rushed back. Benjamin. The thought of facing him sent a twinge of anxiety coiling through my chest. I shook the thought from my mind, not wanting to ruin the serenity of the morning.
"You awake?" Austin mumbled, pressing his lips into my hair.
"Just about," I responded with a slight chuckle.
"We have a big day ahead. Want to face Ben today?" his voice carried a hint of protectiveness, a hint of caution.
I sighed, turning in his arms to face him. "Honestly? Not yet. I need... more time."
Austin looked deep into my eyes, searching for something. After a moment, he nodded. "Okay. Whenever you're ready."
My lips met his in a soft, lingering kiss. "Thank you," I whispered against them.
Slipping from the cocoon of the bed, I stretched, my muscles singing their morning song. I grabbed my phone from the nightstand, the weight of a decision pressing on me. I had been away from New York for so long, and with it, my family. With Austin's supportive gaze watching me, I found the courage to dial the familiar number.
"Hello?" the familiar voice of my mother answered.
"Hey, Mom," I replied hesitantly.
"Paisley! How are you? It's been so long!" Her voice had the same warmth it always did, but I could detect a hint of surprise.
"I'm in New York, Mom." My voice wavered slightly, filled with emotion.
A long pause filled the line. "Oh. Are you... Is everything okay?"
I swallowed hard. "Yes. I just... I've missed you guys. I know the whole wedding debacle caused a lot of trouble and... I'm sorry."
The silence on the other end seemed to stretch on endlessly. Finally, my mother's voice broke it. "Paisley, we were worried about you, not the money. Life isn't about money. We just wanted you to be happy."
I blinked away tears. "Can I come to see you and Dad?"
"Of course, sweetheart. Just tell me when."
Austin, who had been silently observing, leaned in, whispering, "Go to them. I'll be here, whenever you're ready."
Thanking him with a smile, I turned back to the phone. "Would this evening work?"
"That sounds perfect. We've missed you so much."
The call ended with promises of catching up, and as I set the phone down, I felt a mix of relief and apprehension. Austin walked over, wrapping his arms around my waist.
"You okay?" he murmured, his chin resting on my shoulder.
"I think so. I've been avoiding this for too long," I confessed.
He turned me around, gently lifting my chin so our eyes met. "No matter what happens, just remember you're not alone in this anymore."
