Hailey stirred in her sleep, the soft morning light filtering through the curtains. She blinked her eyes open, momentarily disoriented.
The room was warm and she felt the weight of the duvet covering her.
As she shifted, she realised something was off. Her nose was blocked, and now she could barely breathe.
She turned her head to the side and there, lying next to her, was Jay. His dark was tousled, and he looked peaceful in slumber.
Hailey's heart skipped a beat. They'd only been dating a few months, and she still couldn't believe how lucky she was to have him.
But why was he here? She didn't remember him staying over last night. Her mind raced, trying to piece together the events. Had they watched a movie? Had they fallen asleep together? She couldn't recall.
Jay shifted, his arm brushing against hers. His eyes fluttered open, and he squinted at her.
"Morning,"
He mumbled, his voice thick with sleep.
Hailey managed a small smile, despite her blocked nose.
"Morning." she replied. "Why are you here?"
He chuckled, reaching out to tuck a strand of Hailey's hair behind her ear.
"You had a nightmare." he said. "I heard you tossing and turning, so I stayed."
Hailey's heart melted. Jay was always so considerate.
She sat up, wincing as her head throbbed.
"I feel awful!" she confessed. "My nose is completely blocked."
Jay frowned. "You're sick?"
She nodded. "Yeah, I think I caught a cold."
He sat up too, rubbing his eyes.
"Well, lucky for you. I'm an excellent nurse."
He swung his legs over the side of the bed and stood up.
Hailey watched as he disappeared into the bathroom. A few moments later, he returned with a glass of water and a box of tissues.
He handed them to her, concern etching his features.
"Drink this."
He instructed, holding out the glass.
"And, blow your nose."
She did as he said, feeling grateful for his presence.
"Thank you."
Jay climbed back into bed, pullIng her close.
"Anytime." He murmured.
He pressed a kissed to Hailey's warm forehead.
"Now rest. I'll take care of you."
And as Hailey settled back against the pillows. her blocked nose forgotten for a moment.
She realised that waking up with Jay by her side, was the best kind of surprise.