𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐁𝐀𝐁𝐘𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐑ᵃʳⁱᵃⁿᵃ ᵍʳᵃⁿᵈᵉ

𝐗𝐕

I HAVEN'T SEEN Y/N since we made our little "deal," which is a little over a week or so ago. We've both been busy; me with a few things I could take care of without leaving the house, and she had booked a few days with other kids so she wouldn't have been available even if I needed her.

I have an early morning meeting for R.E.M Beauty that unfortunately can't be done over a call, but, luckily, Y/n was finally available and able to watch Delilah while I'm gone.

I was pouring my coffee when the doorbell rang. I smiled, knowing that it was Y/n. I put the lid on my cup and left it on the counter so I could run to the door, nearly slipping on my socks.

I pulled the door open, almost hitting myself in the face with it. The sun was just beginning to rise but the porch light illuminated her face enough for me to see how tired she seemed.

I reached outside to grab her hand that was at her side, tugging her in. I closed the door softly and wrapped my arms around her instantly, not letting her get a word out.

She practically melted in mere seconds, her chin resting on top of my head as she pulled me closer. Her jacket was slightly cold against my cheek from the small bite outside, but the warmth of her body overpowered it.

Y/n sighed heavily and softly kissed the top of my head. "I missed you guys." She mumbled, her chest vibrating under my ear.

I smiled. "We missed you too." I rubbed the middle of her back as I pulled my head back, looking up at her through my eyelashes. "You been okay?" I asked in a whisper.

Y/n sighed again with a small shrug of her shoulders. "Just...rough week, bad night. I had a...a nightmare last night so I didn't sleep that well. But I'm good."

I frowned up at her, not believing that last sentence. "Do you want to talk about it? I don't have to leave for another half hour or so." I plucked a tiny leaf off the arm of her jacket, tossing it to the floor.

Y/n shook her head and let her hands trail down to my hips. "No, it's alright. I'm fine."

This time, I tilted my head and gave her an iconic "really?" look. Y/n finally managed a bigger smile and a small chuckle, shaking her head.

"We're talking tonight. Understood?" I raised my hands and put them on her cold cheeks, feeling them warm up under my touch.

Y/n chuckled again but nodded, making me smile. "Understood. You're so bossy." She mumbled. I grinned, standing on my toes to kiss her cheekbone.

"Good girl. Now, go upstairs and lie down with Lilah. It's early, so you guys can sleep in for a few more hours. Sounds good?" I raised my eyebrows as I started to push the shoulders of her jacket until it started to fall down her arms. I pulled it off completely and pulled away to hang it on the hook.

"Mkay."

I turned back around and watched as she rubbed her eyes with the backs of her hands like a little kid. I smiled, grabbing her hand and kissing her cheek again.

"Go upstairs. I'll see you tonight." I kissed her again and dropped her hand. Y/n just nodded and started to climb the stairs until I couldn't see her anymore. The door to Delilah's room creaked and shut quietly.

With her upstairs, I was left alone to ponder about what must be bothering her. I trudged back to the kitchen and took a sip of my coffee before deciding to throw a load of laundry in the washer before I go.

I tossed a handful of clothing into the washer, my thoughts drifting back to the girl upstairs. She looked so exhausted, physically and mentally. I know that she wouldn't let it affect her work, but that doesn't mean that I don't worry.