I Ran From My Psycho Step-brother Straight Into The Alpha's Lap novel Chapter 59

**When Night Grows Softer Hope Returns To Lead Us by Asa Rowan Finn**

**Chapter 59**

At long last, Sophie stirred awake, a gentle clarity washing over her, accompanied by a noticeable reduction in pain. Blinking against the soft light filtering through the curtains, she took a moment to survey her surroundings.

The room itself was quite spacious, albeit somewhat unadorned—exactly what one might expect from a bachelor’s spare room. It had an air of simplicity, yet there was a certain charm to it that made it feel welcoming in its own right.

With a determined effort, Sophie managed to prop herself up against the pillows. Her body protested with a dull ache, but it was a far cry from the intense discomfort she had been experiencing earlier. A quick glance down revealed that she was clad in a long-sleeved pajama set, which brought her a small measure of comfort.

Just then, a soft knock echoed from the door. “Come in,” she called out, her voice a little hoarse but steady.

“Hey, you’re awake,” Torin said, his tone surprisingly gentle, a stark contrast to the more brash demeanor she was accustomed to.

He leaned casually against the doorframe, his presence somehow both reassuring and protective. “How are you feeling?” he inquired, his eyes searching hers for signs of distress.

“Better than I was,” she replied, her voice slightly stronger now.

“Do you want to get out of bed for a bit and check out the rest of the house?” Torin suggested, a hint of enthusiasm in his voice.

“I think I need to take a shower first. I’m sure I stink,” she admitted, grimacing at the thought.

Torin chuckled softly. “You always smell amazing, Sophie,” he said, his deep voice laced with sincerity. She knew he was being kind, but she brushed it aside with a wave of her hand. “If you’re up for it, I’d love to give you a tour of the house and whip up something for you to eat. Then you can take a shower if you’re still feeling okay,” he added, his eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief.

Sophie nodded, and before she could protest any further, Torin swept her into his arms, lifting her effortlessly and carrying her out of the room.

“I can walk, you know,” she protested weakly, but he merely smiled, his grip firm yet gentle as he carried her down the hallway and into a vast open area.

As they entered the space, Sophie’s gaze roamed in awe. The home was breathtaking, unlike anything she had ever seen before. The walls, constructed from massive logs, added a rustic elegance, and the ceiling mirrored the same natural beauty. The open-concept design created an inviting atmosphere, where the large living room centered around a magnificent stone fireplace. A plush wrap-around couch and two inviting recliners were perfectly positioned to enjoy the warmth of the crackling fire. Above the fireplace, a large television hung, completing the cozy ambiance.

The living room seamlessly flowed into a spacious kitchen outfitted with gleaming stainless steel appliances and a long island that stretched the length of the room. To the side, a grand dining table sat beneath the expansive windows that overlooked a wraparound porch, inviting nature inside. Stairs led up to a loft area that offered a bird’s-eye view of the living room below.

“This is beautiful,” Sophie whispered, her voice barely above a breath.

Torin glanced down at her, a flicker of pride in his expression. “You like it?” he asked, his tone softening further.

Sophie couldn’t help but chuckle, though it brought a twinge of pain. “Like it? It’s like a dream home from one of those giveaway shows. It’s incredible!” she exclaimed, her heart swelling with admiration.

Torin’s lips curled into one of his rare smiles, a sight that warmed her more than the fire ever could. “Good,” he replied simply, and he gently set her down on the couch, ensuring she was comfortable.

“Let’s get you something to eat,” he said, moving toward the kitchen with purpose.

“Okay,” Sophie replied, her stomach growling softly in agreement.

As he rummaged through the kitchen, he turned back to her. “How about grilled cheese?” he suggested, his voice laced with a hint of playful challenge.

“Are you strong enough for one?” he asked, concern etched on his features.

Sophie pondered for a moment, weighing her options. “Maybe a bath?” she suggested tentatively.

Torin nodded, his expression softening as he approached her. Without hesitation, he scooped her up again, carrying her back down the hallway to the room she had occupied.

He entered the bathroom and carefully set her down on the edge of the bathtub. As he turned on the water, pouring in some fragrant soap, he moved with a sense of purpose. He returned with two bottles and a pink loofah, placing them on the edge of the tub along with two fluffy white towels.

“I won’t be far. If you call, I’ll hear you,” he promised, standing back to assess her comfort. “Will you be okay?” he asked, his eyes searching hers.

Sophie looked up at him, her heart swelling with gratitude. “I’ll be fine. Thank you,” she reassured him.

Once Torin stepped out, she began the slow, careful process of undressing. Finally, she eased herself into the warm embrace of the tub, letting out a contented sigh as the water enveloped her. The warmth was intoxicating, and for a moment, she considered staying there forever, but the thought of falling asleep or becoming too weak to climb out tugged at her mind.

She reached for the shampoo, noticing it was the same brand she used at her other house. After washing her hair, she opened the body wash, inhaling deeply. The scent of vanilla wafted up, her absolute favorite.

A few minutes later, feeling refreshed and relaxed, she decided it was time to get out of the bathtub. However, as she tried to rise, she found herself struggling. No matter how she shifted, there was no way to gain leverage without aggravating her ribs. Panic began to creep in, and just as tears threatened to spill, a familiar voice broke through the tension.

“Sophie, it’s me.” Madison’s voice was like a lifeline. “Can I come in?”

Sophie glanced down, relieved to see she was completely covered in bubbles, a playful shield against her predicament.