Chapter 573: Sleep Together
Arabelle was over the moon. She glanced secretly at Autumn, who was standing on the other side of the room, and then at the door, hoping Gabe would arrive soon. Tonight, they were all going to sleep in the same bed, just like how all her friends slept between their parents. Today’s picnic had turned out to be the best day ever. It was even better than her first day.
Even though Autumn was her older sister, Aunty N had said that since Mama had left her with Autumn before going to heaven so she should treat Autumn like her mother. And if Autumn was like her mother, then Gabe was like her father, right? So tonight, she could sleep between Gabe and Autumn and pretend to be sleeping with her parents. They could cuddle and read stories.
On the other side of the room, Autumn was feeling scared. If only the matter had been completed today. They wouldn’t have to worry about staying in this place overnight where the rooms were all booked and they were forced to share a room. Sharing a room with Gabe...
She glanced at Arabelle, who was so full of excitement and innocence, and wished she could feel the same way. But she was nervouse... She knew she wouldn’t be able to sleep all night. Thankfully, he’d gone out and she’d had time to mentally prepare herself.
The door creaked open, and Gabe walked in, his face tired and somewhat worried. The look of worry on his face made Autumn feel a little better. She was not the only one who was a mess about tonight.
On the other hand, Arabelle’s face lit up happily, "Yes! Come on, Gabe, let’s get into bed! Time to sleep."
With feet as heavy as lead, Autumn walked to the bed and gingerly got into bed. Arabelle quickly grabbed her hand, pulling her arm over her and sliding close to her as Gabe walked into bed from the other side. His arm was also grabbed similarly so that both their arms lay together on top of little Arabelle, who was now pink in the face with happiness.
Autumn was acutely aware of Gabe lying on the bed. His presence was palpable, his fingers nearly brushing against her stomach. Each small movement he made sent a wave of anxiousness and an unexpected thrill through her. She tried to steady her breathing, focusing on the rhythmic rise and fall of Arabelle’s chest instead.
Arabelle’s soft voice broke through her reverie. "Gabe, tell us a story," she whispered, her eyes already half-closed and her voice sleepy. Gabe shifted slightly, his fingers inadvertently grazing Autumn’s side, sending a shiver down her spine. "Alright, Arabelle," he said gently. "How about the one about the magical forest?"