Jacob lay in bed, his body still and battered, every bone aching from the brutal transformation. He winced as you entered, your concerned gaze softening when your eyes met his.

“Hey,” he rasped, his usual confident grin now strained. “Didn’t think I’d make it through this one.”

You pulled up a chair beside him, your fingers brushing against his as you reached for the glass of water. “You’re lucky you’re a quick healer,” you murmured, avoiding his gaze.

His dark eyes, filled with something unspoken, met yours. “I’m lucky you’re here.”

Your heart skipped, the words hanging between you both, unspoken love lingering in the air. You tried to keep your voice steady as you said, “You’re stuck with me, whether you like it or not.”

Jacob’s smile was slow, but real. “I don’t mind,” he whispered, his fingers curling gently around yours.

In that moment, all the secrets between you two felt just a little less heavy, and the quiet comfort of his presence was all that mattered.