Shadows of the Past

comfort

travis's pov:

Travis sat in the chair next to Taylor's bed, watching her as she slept. His thoughts were a whirlwind of confusion and concern.

What happened to her? Why is she so scared? The image of her screaming and trembling was seared into his mind. I've never seen someone so terrified, so vulnerable.

He leaned back in the chair, running a hand through his hair. Taylor had always been so defensive, so full of attitude. But now, seeing her like this, I feel like I'm seeing a completely different person. Maybe I'm seeing the real Taylor for the first time.

As he sat there, lost in thought, Taylor began to stir. She moved slightly, her lips parting as she mumbled incoherent words. Travis leaned forward, trying to catch what she was saying, but it was too soft and jumbled to make out.

"Taylor?" he whispered, gently touching her arm. "Are you awake?"

Her eyes fluttered open, still clouded with sleep and fear. She looked around, disoriented, before her gaze settled on Travis.

"Travis?" she whispered, her voice trembling. "Can you... can you hold me? I'm scared."

Travis's heart ached at the vulnerability in her voice. He hesitated for a moment, taken aback by the request. She had always been so cold, so dismissive of him. But now, she was reaching out, showing a side of herself he had never seen before.

"Of course," he said softly, moving to sit on the edge of the bed. He wrapped his arms around her, holding her gently but securely. "I've got you."

Taylor nestled into his embrace, her body still trembling. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

"It's okay," Travis murmured, trying to soothe her. "You're safe now."

Taylor's grip tightened slightly, as if afraid he might disappear. "I'm sorry," she said suddenly. "For being so horrible to you."

Travis was taken aback. "Why are you apologizing? You've been through a lot."

Taylor shook her head, burying her face in his chest. "I've been so mean to you. I just... I didn't know how to trust anyone."

He rubbed her back gently, feeling a mixture of sadness and protectiveness. "You don't have to apologize. I didn't understand what you were going through. But I want to help now."

Taylor looked up at him, her eyes filled with uncertainty. "Why are you being so kind to me?"

Travis smiled softly. "Because I care. I know it might not seem like it, but I do. I want to understand, Taylor. I want to help you."

She sighed, her body relaxing a little more in his arms. "I'm scared, Travis. Of everything. Of being alone. Of what happens next."

Travis tightened his hold, his voice firm yet gentle. "You don't have to be scared. I'm here. We'll figure it out together, okay?"

Taylor nodded, her eyes closing as she rested her head against his chest. "Okay," she whispered, finally allowing herself to believe in his words.

As she drifted back to sleep, Travis kept his arms around her, his mind racing. This was not the Taylor he thought he knew. She was stronger than he had given her credit for, yet so fragile at the same time.

I need to understand what she went through. I need to help her heal.

And as the night wore on, Travis made a silent vow to be there for her, no matter what it took. Eventually, his own exhaustion caught up with him, and he drifted off to sleep, still holding Taylor close, offering her the comfort and protection she so desperately needed.