26. Paul's Comforting Gesture
Paul approached his wife, gently removing his black jacket and draping it over Ellen's shoulders with care. She gazed up at him, her lips curling into a smile despite the shivers that ran through her. A man, observing the scene, rested a hand on their shoulders and inquired with a concerned tone, "You... Are you okay?"
Ellen's smile held as she nodded, her body still trembling. Paul's fists clenched involuntarily, his frustration evident to his friend Petro. "Come on, brother," Petro whispered, his eyes fixed on Ellen's quivering form. "Ellen is cold." Petro followed Paul and Ellen as they left the place.
Phil, noticing the trio comprising the two brothers and Ellen, trailed behind them, his curiosity getting the best of him. "What happened?" he queried, his gaze darting between them.
Petro stood by Ellen's side, taking a careful look at her. "Some... idiot bumped into her and got her wet. Let's get her to her apartment," he explained, his voice laced with a mix of concern and annoyance.
"I'm coming with you," Phil asserted, joining the group as they moved. Observing Paul's supportive gesture of holding Ellen's shoulders and guiding her, Phil couldn't help but notice the unspoken understanding between them. His thoughts strayed, but he quickly refocused.
Petro's eyes rested on Ellen, who clung to herself for warmth. Unable to bear seeing her discomfort, Paul took her arm and placed it around his waist, his voice soft as he whispered in her ear, "If you allow, if you hug me, you can stay warmer, all right?" Their eyes met, and she consented, placing her hand on his waist. Paul's hand on her waist drew them closer as they walked, his protective presence enveloping her.
The heat emanating from Paul gradually warmed Ellen. Amidst the warmth, Paul's only concern was her well-being. Behind her composed exterior, Ellen concealed a smile, touched by his unexpected affection.
Upon entering the apartment, Paul and Ellen lingered at the back, while Petro positioned himself beside Ellen. Petro's touch on her shoulder prompted Ellen to face him. "Are you feeling all right, really?" he inquired, his concern evident.
Ellen nodded, reassured by Petro's genuine care. "I am. Thank you for your help. Since I met your brothers, Petro, these things happen," she shared, a soft smile gracing her lips.
Petro's eyes softened, and he commented, "There are always some idiots anyway, but I'm glad you're okay." Ellen's smile widened as she met his gaze, while Paul whispered to her, a hint of a smile playing on his lips, "I'm glad I'm always with you when that happens." His wink lightened the mood, and Ellen found comfort in the presence of Petro and Phil.
As the doors opened, Ellen reluctantly withdrew her hand from Paul's waist, mirrored by his action. Parting seemed inevitable, but there was promise of more moments to come. Ellen approached the doors, turning back to them with gratitude. "Thanks, really. Have a good night," she bid them farewell, though the thought of her forgotten jacket prompted her to add, "Your jacket, Paul."
Paul gestured for her not to worry, advising, "Hand it to me later. It's cold. Good night, and have a nice hot tea before bed. It helps." His smile was warm, and his gaze lingered appreciatively on her form. Ellen returned the smile, her heart fluttering at his gaze, before she finally left, her departure leaving Phil with a sense of regret.
Petro bid her good night, the evidence of concern still etched on his face. Ellen made her way to her friend's apartment, clutching Paul's jacket around her. His scent enveloped her, providing comfort as she ventured into her friend's place.
Inside, Ellen found her friend sleeping peacefully, her worries momentarily alleviated. Content that her friend was okay, Ellen settled down on the bed, her elation evident in the smile that adorned her face. She covered her face with her hands before realizing the light was still on. With a sigh, she crossed the room to switch it off.
Now clad only in her thoughts and Paul's jacket, Ellen stretched out on the bed. Sleep beckoned, and as her eyes grew heavy, she clung to the jacket, her smile unwavering. As slumber claimed her, Ellen basked in the comfort it brought, feeling as if Paul's embrace was keeping her safe and warm, a radiant smile playing on her lips as she drifted into dreams.