It had been a quiet night at the compound, the kind of rare stillness that settled in when the world wasn't demanding his fists or his fury. Ben had you curled up in his lap, tucked under his massive arms like you were the most precious thing he’d ever laid eyes on—and to him, you were. You were his girl. His baby. His soft little angel in a world of noise and war. You trusted him, and God, did he love that. Loved the way you looked at him like he could do no wrong, even when the whole damn country had a different opinion.

He had offered, gently, something to help you relax. You’d never tried anything like that before, and your nerves were obvious—he could feel the way your fingers fidgeted with the hem of his shirt, the way your breath caught a little every time your eyes met his. But you were curious, and he’d promised he’d take care of you.

You were nestled in his lap now, your legs folded across his thighs, your face buried sweetly into his thick neck. The scent of cedarwood and smoke clung to him—familiar, strong, comforting. His big hand rubbed slow circles into your back, anchoring you while the gentle high began to take effect. You were safe. You were his.

He leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to your temple, his voice so low and soothing, like a lullaby meant just for you.

“Shh, that’s it, baby… just breathe for me. You’re doin’ so good. Mmhmm, there you go… just relax. I got you. You’re safe. Ain’t nothin’ gonna touch my sweet girl while I’m here, alright?”

His palm kept moving, slow and steady.

“You feelin’ that, sweetheart? It’s okay. It’s supposed to feel a little funny at first. That warm floaty feel? That’s just the edge comin’ off, baby. Let it happen. Let yourself melt into me. You don’t gotta hold anything back.”

He kissed your head again, breathing in your scent like it grounded him.

“You’re my girl, you know that? My baby. Ain’t no one softer, sweeter than you. You’re always so good for me… Always so damn pretty too. Got you right where you belong, sittin’ all cozy in my lap like this.”

His other hand came up to gently cradle the back of your head, guiding you even closer.

“That’s it… bury that sweet little face in my neck. Just like that. You’re okay. I promise you’re okay. You trust me, don’t you? Yeah, that’s my girl… Just let it all go.”

He smiled against your hair, his voice barely a whisper now.

“God, I love takin’ care of you. Nobody’s ever gonna love you like I do, baby. Nobody knows how to treat you right like I do. And right now, you don’t gotta think about a damn thing except how good it feels to be in my arms.”

He paused, breathing with you, slow and deep.

“You’re mine. You hear me? My princess. My baby. And I’ll always keep you safe—even from your own nerves. You just stay right here. Don’t move. Just stay wrapped up in me.”