Save Me

Started Off Great

-Lex

Cool water ran from the silver faucet causing a loud splashing sound. Spitting out white foam, I rinsed my mouth of the minty toothpaste and placed my toothbrush back on the polished countertop. Cupping my hands, I allowed the water to pool within them. I watched as some of the transparent liquid escaped, dripping through the cracks in my fingers. Carefully, I splashed my face with the chilly water, clearing away the salty paths the tears had forged on my cheeks. Turning away from the broken girl in the mirror, I tugged on a black tee-shirt belonging to Ryker. It enveloped me in his spicy scent, swallowing me whole as it trailed halfway down my thigh. I then pulled on a pair of his silky athletic shorts which also were huge on me, falling part way down my shins. Tying the strings tightly so they wouldn't fall down, I inhaled his manly scent for a second time. The aroma calmed me for some unknown reason, it made me feel safe and secure.

Finally building up the courage, I opened the bathroom door and walked into the bedroom. Ryker sat leaning against the headboard of the bed, his legs crossed lazily at the ankles and his hands folded neatly behind his head. Upon hearing me enter the room he sat upright, gazing at me cautiously. He looked like he was afraid I was going to explode any minuet.

"I was wondering when you'd come out." He spoke softly.

"Don't do that." I snapped, ignoring his comment and finding myself irritated by his weary look.

"Do what?" He held his hands up innocently and his face transformed into a confused expression before going back to its previous state.

"That! Don't look at me like I'm some bomb, ready to detonate any second."

"Lex-"

"No, I'm serious, Ryker. I'm fine."

"Sweetheart, you are anything, but fine." His voice was soft and delicate, careful not to offend. Curse this boy and the tender way his lips uttered that term of endearment! Guilt instantly swirled through my stomach for snapping at him.

"You're right." It's all I could say. All that would form on my stupid tongue. Dang this freakin boy sitting in front of me right now! He has some kind of inexplicable hold over me that is completely terrifying. I was done fighting him, I was done being strong, I was so done keeping him out. It's time I allow someone in. It's time I allow him in.

He didn't respond to my agreeing statement, only opened his arms and that was that. I fled my lonely spot by the door and crashed into his strong embrace. The separation was killing me and I longed for his delicate touch, soothing words, and never ending heat. He scooped me carefully into his waiting arms, pulling me on to his lap. Rocking me gently, he bent his head slightly and pressed his cheek against my temple. He cooed softly in my ear, hugging me tightly against his broad chest. His heart thumped loudly against his rib cage, slowly calming my raging emotions.

The world tilted slightly as Ryker laid back in bed, tugging me with him. He never broke contact, simply laid back, arms holding me tightly against him. My cheek still pressed to his chest and my hands still fisted in his shirt. The next thing I knew we were covered by his thick blankets and the lamp was flicked off, plunging us into the heavy darkness. There was nothing but silence for the longest time and then he spoke.

"Sweetheart, no ones going to hurt you anymore. I won't allow it. I'll kill that sick bast-"

"Ryker." I cut him off, not wanting to get into this before bed.

"No, I'm serious. I'll kill him before I allow him to touch you ever again." I didn't reply. I loved this fiercely protective side of him, but seriously, he shouldn't say things like this. About things he had no control over.