Dylan stayed quiet, letting her frantically clean. Once she was sure everything was spotless and realized he wasn't upset, she breathed a sigh of relief. She gently released his hand, speaking softly, "Mr. Dylan, are you feeling better now?"
He glanced down at his wrist, still warm from her touch. Her fingers were long and delicate, like vines, and the warmth seemed to seep into his skin. Clara asked again, "Mr. Dylan, do you feel better after taking the medicine?"
He finally looked up and gave a slight nod, acknowledging her concern, while lightly shaking the wrist she had held. Clara quickly let go, and promptly apologized, "I'm sorry, I was just too worried. I'm glad you're okay."
Silence filled the back seat. Clara couldn't quite tell if he was upset. She sat up straight and fastened her seatbelt. Dylan looked out the window, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips before fading away.
The car pulled up in Palm Bay, and Jackson jumped out, opening the back door. He intended to help Dylan out but found him asleep, his head resting on Clara’s shoulder. Jackson had driven with unusual caution, taking a full forty minutes to get there.
Clara had also dozed off, leaning against the window instead of Dylan. Dylan was sound asleep. His head was nestled on her shoulder.
When the door opened, Clara stirred and was about to speak, but Jackson quickly gestured for silence. His tone was softer now; he was not nitpicking at her like before.
"Let him sleep a bit longer. He's been dealing with insomnia for a while."
Insomnia? No wonder his eyes were bloodshot as if he hadn't rested properly in days. Clara immediately froze, catching glimpses of his hair and long eyelashes out of the corner of her eye. It was hard to imagine the formidable Dylan sleeping so peacefully.
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