Every momentary flash of light was followed by a rumble of its old friend, thunder, while the rain attempted its own imitation of the pounding sound. The window seemed to barely be able to resist the onslaught as it shuddered and vibrated with each new wave.
Wide eyes glanced at the window in fear. All traces of the previously restful sleep had disappeared within moments.
She yelped when a new rumble of thunder rolled around the house. Her blanket soon surrounded her like a private fortress in the dark protecting her from the harsh world.
In a moment of reprieve she slid out of bed and padded her way over to Adele's room, blanket wrapped tightly around her small body as if that would keep the storm out. Perhaps it was her little fortress with a muffled moat surrounding it.
She didn't like storms. They reminded her of angry people and violence. Neither was nice. Both were scary.
One came with the other, just like the thunder and lightning always did. It was almost like they were twins who were constantly chasing each other to some unknown finish line.
Adele knew of her fear. Adele would be disappointed that she had not been able to stay in her bed tonight, but she could not help it.
She was scared those angry hands would reach into her nightmares and hurt her in their fury. She was never safe from them unless Adele was with her.
Carefully, she crept closer to where she knew Adele's bed to be, body shuddering as each wave of thunder rolled over her, until she reached the edge of the bed.
Sure enough, Adele turned over a moment later and without a word lifted the edge of her blanket with a sigh.
She felt a comforting arm wrap around her protectively, keeping the lights, sounds, and anger away from her dreams, while surrounding her in warmth.
"Sleep Ambs. No one will harm you."