Fragile Moments

As Hange held me close, I could feel his exhaustion seeping into his body, his muscles tense and his breathing slow. His fingers, still gently stroking my hair, began to falter, and I knew he was fighting to stay awake. I buried my face into his chest, inhaling the familiar scent of his cologne and the warmth of his skin. It was a smell that always brought me comfort, a reminder of the countless times he had held me, soothed me, and loved me. But even as I clung to him, I could sense his weariness, the weight of his responsibilities and the toll it took on his body. His tech company, Zephyr Innovations, was on the cusp of a major breakthrough, and the pressure was mounting. I had seen him pour over documents and attend endless meetings, his dedication to his work unwavering. And yet, as much as I understood his obligations, I couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy. I longed for the days when he had more time for me, when his work wasn't so all-consuming. As he struggled to keep his eyes open, I felt a surge of anxiety. What would happen if he fell asleep while holding me? Would I be able to cope with being alone again? The thought sent a shiver down my spine, and I tightened my grip on his shirt, as if I could anchor him to me. Hange's voice was barely above a whisper, his words slurred with fatigue. "I'll get through this, baby. Just...just hold on, okay?" His eyes drooped, and his head nodded forward, his chin brushing against my forehead. I whimpered, feeling a cold dread creeping up my spine. I didn't want him to sleep; I needed him awake and present. But it was too late. His body relaxed, and he let out a soft snore, his chest rising and falling with each gentle breath. I was left alone, cradled in his arms, his warmth and scent enveloping me. The room around me receded, and all that mattered was the fragile hold I had on him. I wrapped my arms around him, holding him close as if I could physically keep him from leaving me. As the minutes ticked by, I began to feel a sense of unease. Hange's sleep was fitful, his body twitching and his hands fluttering as if he was chasing after something in his dreams. I held him tighter, trying to anchor him to reality. Suddenly, his phone buzzed on the coffee table, shattering the silence. I flinched, my heart racing as I wondered who could be calling so late. Hange stirred, his eyes fluttering open as he reached for his phone. "Hey," he muttered, his voice groggy. "What's up?" I waited, holding my breath as he listened to the person on the other end. His expression changed, his eyes narrowing as he sat up straight. "I'll be right there," he said, his voice firm and commanding. "Wake up the team. We need to get this sorted out now." My heart sank as I realized he was being called away. Again.