"Leo…" she whispered softly, almost like testing the air.
He didn't answer. His lashes were still lowered, his expression calm, like a man finally at peace. But his hold only grew firmer, pulling her closer until her back was flush against his chest.
Bella's face heated even more. She squeezed her eyes shut, whispering in her head, I can't breathe… this is so embarrassing! Why does he have to hold me like this?
Leo stirred as soon as he felt her soft little wiggles in his arms. His grip instinctively tightened, pulling her back against his chest as if she belonged nowhere else. His voice came out low, rough with sleep, and deeper than usual.
"Sleep more…" he muttered into the curve of her neck, his breath tickling her skin.
Bella's whole body jolted, her cheeks heating like fire. He was awake?!
"I-I'm not sleepy…" she whispered quickly, her lips pushing into a pout. She tried to shift away again, but that only made him lock her in tighter, his arm like iron around her waist.
