Chapter 99

Zachary rubbed his nose awkwardly and explained patiently, "I like them too, but liking them doesn't mean that I can act out of line. That would be disrespectful to you!" Molly replied softly, "But I wouldn't mind!" "That's not acceptable. You're still too young to understand these things. In a few years, you'll get it." Feeling the conversation was going off track, he pretended to yawn and said, "Alright. Let's stop talking about this. I'm tired and need to sleep!" He then closed his eyes. What started as a feigned attempt to sleep soon turned into actual slumber. Listening to the steady rhythm of Zachary's breathing, Molly peeked up to check if he was really asleep. Once she confirmed he was, she nestled closer into his arms. With her cheek resting against his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart, she felt an unprecedented sense of peace. The overwhelming feeling of safety allowed her to relax completely. "Zac, it feels so good to be by your side..." She murmure