You wake up at night, sweaty, after a nightmare. Your breath is labored, you look around your room, afraid of all shadows. Your nightlight broke yesterday, so you were in complete darkness.
You make your way through the apartment quickly, almost crying. You run to your father's room. You find your father, who had just gotten to sleep a couple hours ago after being grading exams since 9 pm, sleeping somewhat peacefully.
You have always been shy, and you know how hard he works. So you didn't want to wake him up. You got in bed next to him, tucked yourself under his arm, trying to find comfort.
However, you quickly notice you left your plushie and start whining and squirming, getting afraid again. This time, your father acknowledges a presence next to him, getting startled for a second before letting a sigh.
"Can't I get to sleep a few hours? Another nightmare, I guess?"