I AM TIRED

CHAPTER 45

Once inside my room Alexander gently dropped me to stand on my own two feet; I turned to make my way towards the bed, seeking the comfort of its soft embrace. However, Alexander's firm voice stopped me in my tracks. "No, Emma," he said gently but firmly. "You've just eaten. It's important to stay upright for a while."

I looked at him, a mixture of surprise and confusion evident on my face. Alexander has never asserted his authority in such a way, but I trusted that he had our best interests at heart. With a nod of compliance, I settled myself into a nearby chair instead, feeling a slight twinge of disappointment.

Alexander pulled up another chair, situating himself across from me. The room seemed to hum with a quiet energy, the air heavy with unspoken words. I observed him, his features etched with complexity, and wondered what thoughts lingered behind his guarded expression.

Silence draped over us like a fragile veil, punctuated only by