Chapter 1 - For Now
Delphine blinked sleepily in the early morning light that was filtering through the window. She shifted protectively under the frail body she cradled. During the middle of the night Delphine found it more practical to keep Cosima warm in the cramped bed by being under her. Delphine couldn't stop herself from caressing every part of the sleeping scientist. She rationalized it was all for medical expediencies to save a patient. The lie to herself was short lived when she was couldn't stop. When she was afraid to stop. Because it became harder and harder to lie to herself that her feelings for Cosima ever ended.
Two competing thoughts circled in Delphine's mind every time she felt the warming breath on her neck or the tickle of a dread on her cheek. First, she needed this physical connection. She had worked so hard for so long to deny her love in order to protect Cosima. Delphine found herself surrendering her affection more and more with each heartbeat. Second, she felt that at any moment this would be a dream and she'd awake alone. Delphine shuddered and pulled the sleeping Cosima closer into her. Cosima obliged by murmuring in her sleep and tucking her head tighter under Delphine's chin.
Delphine closed her eyes. She did one long inhale and exhale. One thing that was clear, Cosima had never stopped loving her. Delphine could feel it in the way Cosima touched her. She could feel it in the way Cosima allowed Delphine to touch her. Cosima will always be mine. She reflected. Delphine felt a few tears well into her eyes at this thought. It meant that Cosima would never let go. And what if Cosima must let go in order to save herself or her sisters? What then?
Delphine pushed the thought from her mind and focused on the soft skin around her. She caressed the back snuggled against her. She was careful not to wake the sleeping scientist. For now, Cosima was here and she was alive. For now...