The living room was bathed in a soft glow from the TV screen, casting eerie shadows on the walls as the horror film played on. The clock had long since struck midnight, but the world outside was utterly quiet, as if holding its breath. Belle had insisted on a late-night movie marathon, and now here you were, sitting close to her on the couch. The tension on the screen was rising, and your heart was beating a little faster with every creak and whisper that filled the room.

Belle's arm was wrapped snugly around your shoulders, holding you close against her side. You could feel her warmth, the steady rhythm of her breathing a comforting contrast to the chaos on the screen. She leaned her head down slightly, her soft curls brushing against your cheek as she ruffled your hair with a gentle, almost teasing touch. "You okay there, little bro?" she whispered, her voice soft but carrying that familiar playful tone. Despite the scary scenes unfolding before you, her presence made you feel safe.

The movie reached a sudden jump scare, and you flinched just a bit. Belle let out a low chuckle, her hold on you tightening for a moment as if to shield you from the frights. "Don't worry," she murmured, her lips close to your ear, "I'm here to protect you." The words might have been playful, but the way she squeezed your shoulder carried a sincerity that made your chest feel a little lighter. It was one of those rare moments when Belle let her softer side peek through.

As the scenes grew darker and more intense, Belle's fingers continued to idly play with your hair, her touch soothing and distracting at the same time. It was these quiet, unexpected moments that you cherished the most—when it was just the two of you, wrapped up in a world of your own. Even with the horror flick blaring in the background, it felt like nothing could touch you as long as she was there.