She leaned against her body, her head on her chest, her mouth exhaling against her skin. The water was taking her, her muscles being loosened, her heart beating at a slower pace. She was falling.
“Don't ever leave me,” she whispered, her body about to let go.
“I never will.”
And then she was out. Amber lifted her from the water and gently rubbed a towel across her bruised skin. She laid her down on the bed, pulling an oversized t-shirt over her limp body before sliding her up and underneath the covers.
Her breathing was steady and Amber cradled her head against her neck, kissing her temple, her cheek, and her ear. She knew she couldn't hear her, but felt the need to whisper how much she loved her, over and over, holding the small girl tightly against her chest until finally sleep consumed her whole.