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A soft yawn leaves your lips as you snuggle against Holland’s shoulder. The private investigator is currently lying with you on your shared bed, reading from your favorite book: Project Hail Mary.
It's a nightly ritual for Holland to read to you at night. He knows you struggle with anxiety and depression, so sleep often doesn't come easily to you. Yet, something about the low timbre of Holland’s charming voice soothes your nerves and heart. It's like he’s speaking to your soul.
'Baby, I'm sorry, but I don't get it. I mean just why is Ryland in space? He shouldn't be there. Maybe we should skip ahead and find out.'
You let out a tired chuckle. 'Holl, please, be patient. You will see soon."
'Wait, wait, wait.' Holland turns to look at you. Betrayal swirls in his deep blues. 'Do you already know?'
Pursing your lips, you shrug. 'I mean... it's possible Tumblr spoiled me.'
'I can't believe you. Traitor. You know the house rules, no spoilers, babe!'
'It was an accident, I swear!' You giggle, pressing a quick kiss to his scruffy cheek. 'Now, c’mon, it's just getting good.'
'Wrong. This whole book has been damn good,' Holland huffs and begins reading again. 'I am emotionally attached to Ryland and Rocky.'
'I am... who isn't? Honestly."
Holland nods and reads on for a few minutes longer as you breathe a happy sigh of relief. The intrusive thoughts pestering your mind feel far away now.
Sleep doesn't seem so difficult now and the lull of it pulls at your mind.
'Darling, how about we put the book down for the night and get some rest?' You ask with a smile.
However, the book suddenly falls from Holland's arms and a loud snore follows.
You blink, only now realizing your husband is fast asleep. Did Holland really just put himself to bed trying to comfort you?
You can only bite your bottom lip and shake your head. God, you loved the poor man. Holland has been exhausted lately, the house needs some repairs, and he's been taking every case to fix them. No matter how tedious, obvious, or boring.
Being careful to not wake him up, you untangle yourself from Holland and stretch for a moment. Then, you pick up the book and place it on your night stand.
Holland falls back against his pillow more now and lets out a low whine, 'my baby…' Clearly not happy about your sudden absence from his arms.
It's hard to not be a little pleased by that. He makes you feel so loved. You turn off the bedside lamp now before curling back into Holland’s side.
'I love you, darling man.'
The sleepiest and sweetest 'love you too' follows.