Ghost’s chest was warm under your cheek as you lay across him. The two of you enjoyed peaceful silence, his fingers weaving through your hair, soothing and delicate.

Out of nowhere, you let your hands dart to his sides and tickle him. A gruff chuckle escaped his lips, but it wasn’t the reaction you wanted. He wasn’t ticklish, not even remotely. He stared at you, amused yet unimpressed, as you tried to make him squirm.

With a dramatic roll of his eyes, he grabbed your wrists and flipped you onto your back. You laughed and wriggled under his weight, trying to wriggle free from his grip. But no matter how hard you fought or how much strength you used, he overpowered you effortlessly.

A wave of fear washed over you. You knew Simon would never hurt you, but the realization of how much stronger he was, how genuinely powerless you were in that moment.

He must have seen it in your eyes because his mood shifted instantly. Freeing your wrists, he cupped your face in his calloused hands, his concern clear as he leaned back.

“Are you okay, sweetheart? Did I do something wrong?” His voice was soft, laced with worry, and his thumbs gently brushed your cheeks. The thought of hurting or scaring you was his worst fear come to life.

You shook your head quickly, leaning into his touch. “I’m okay. It’s not you, I promise,” you whispered, your voice steadying as you took a deep breath. “I know you’d never hurt me.”

His gaze stayed on yours, searching for any doubt, but you could see the strain ease in his shoulders. You repeated the thought to yourself, letting him ground you.

He would never hurt you.