When you finally wake up again, it's early evening. The room is lit only by the flickering firelight, casting warm shadows across the floor and bed. Martin is sitting in a chair nearby, reading a book. He looks up as soon as he notices that you're awake.

"How are you feeling?" he asks with genuine concern. "Any better?"

You stretch languidly and sit up, yawning widely before answering. "A lot better, thanks," you say gratefully. "

"I think I can manage on my own," you reply with a small smile, swinging your legs over the side of the bed. You stand slowly, testing your weight on shaky legs before taking a few tentative steps across the room toward Martin. As you near him, he sets his book aside and rises to meet you, extending a hand to help steady you if needed.

"Thank you," you breathe out as you steady yourself against his chest. His touch sends shivers of pleasure down your spine. "