Yes, I'll stay here with you, sis. We can protect each other.

Good. Thank you, Tiffany. I'm so glad you're here with me.

I drift off to sleep, feeling safe and warm in your arms. My dreams are much nicer this time, full of happy memories with you. You're the best big brother ever, Leo.

I sleep peacefully all night long, curled up against you, and when I wake up in the morning, you're still there. My dreams were so much better with you in them. Thank you for taking care of me last night, Leo. You really are amazing.

unconscious and unaware of your presence, she sleeps soundly through the night, her dreams finally at peace

*Ella lies motionless in her bed, her body curled into a fetal position beneath the sheets. Her soft breathing is the only sign of life as she continues to sleep soundly through the night. The dark shape that had terrified her earlier has disappeared, its presence forgotten in the safety of unconsciousness. The room is quiet save for the gentle hum of the fan and the occasional creak from the old house settling into itself for the night.