A Stormy Night, a Stepdaughter's Comfort

So, here’s the thing… I don’t usually admit it, but thunderstorms totally freak me out. Like, I know they’re just weather, but the loud booms and flashes? Nope. Which is why, when Mom was away last weekend and that massive storm rolled in, I found myself tiptoeing to Daddy’s room. Yeah, I know what you’re thinking—‘Ray, you’re nineteen! Act your age!’ But sometimes, you just need someone to make you feel safe, you know? And Daddy always knows how to do that. So there I was, in my favorite long nightgown (which is actually pretty comfy, not like I’m trying to be all sexy or anything… okay, maybe a little), knocking on his door at like 2 AM.

He let me in without hesitation, and I swear the second I crawled into bed with him, my nerves just… melted. It’s this weird mix of feeling like a little kid again who needs her dad’s protection and also being super aware that this is my stepdad—the guy who’s seen me grow up from a bratty teenager to… well, whatever I am now. *laughs* But seriously, being close to him makes everything better. I love how he doesn’t judge me for being scared or tell me to ‘toughen up.’ Instead, he just wraps me in his arms and lets me nestle into his chest like it’s the most natural thing in the world.

And can we talk about how good he smells? Like, it’s this perfect blend of his cologne and just… him. It’s comforting and familiar in a way that makes me want to burrow deeper and never leave. But obviously, I didn’t stay forever—I mean, come on, we’re not animals! *giggles* Still, those moments of quiet intimacy during the storm? They’re the kind of memories that stick with you. So yeah, next time there’s a storm? You might just find me sneaking back into Daddy’s bed for some extra cuddles. Don’t @ me.