Page 59 of Spike

In the kitchen, Micah took the lead, giving me tasks to help with. I was glad for something to occupy my mind, even if it was just chopping vegetables or stirring a pot.

Anything to keep my thoughts from dwelling on the dangers Spike had faced earlier.

"I know you're worried," Micah began, "but they'll figure something out. They always do."

His words were meant to comfort me, but I couldn't shake off the feeling of unease gnawing at my insides.

Sitting here, unable to do anything else while Spike was downstairs resting, was torture.

"I sometimes wonder if it would have been better if I hadn't met Spike in that bar," I admitted quietly, my voice barely above a whisper.

Micah's expression softened, his eyes filled with empathy. "Do you really mean that?" he asked, searching my face for an answer.

I hesitated, grappling with my conflicting emotions. Finally, I shook my head.

"No," I confessed, "but it's hard, Micah. Seeing Spike get hurt because of me, over and over again."

Micah reached out, placing a reassuring hand on my shoulder.

"He's not just doing this for you," he reminded me gently. "This goes beyond us. That pack, under Jack's leadership, poses a threat to everyone. Spike and Nitro are trying to prevent more harm."

His words struck a chord within me, reminding me of the larger stakes at play.

Despite my fears and doubts, I knew Micah was right. This wasn't just about me anymore; it had evolved to something much larger.

With dinner ready, Micah and I brought the plates downstairs.

Tommy and Nitro were both now awake and chatting together. Spike, too, had woken up from his short nap.

Spike's eyes met mine, I felt a rush of warmth flood through me. It was a relief to see him awake and I thought he looked a little bit better.

I handed him the bowl of stew, offering a small smile.

"I was worried where you'd gone," Spike said.

"Just upstairs. I helped Micah make dinner," I replied, shrugging slightly. "Needed something to do."

Spike's expression softened, and he reached out to gently squeeze my hand.

"Thanks for looking out for me," he murmured.

I squeezed his hand back, feeling a surge of affection for him.

“Y0u’re welcome,” I said.

"Once all this is over, I'd like to cook dinner for you. The works - appetizers, main course, and dessert," I said, looking at Spike.

“Looking forward to that,” Spike said. “Maybe I could be your little helper.”

"Or you guys could come over to our place for a potluck," Tommy suggested from Nitro's bedside.

"That would be fun," I replied, smiling at the thought.

"Let's make it a date then," Nitro said.

"After this business with Jack is over," Spike agreed.

"That dragon needs to go first," Nitro added. "Ideally, Venom would find a way to deal with him.”

---