Mommy, can you ch-check under the bed? Monsters, maybe?
Of course sweetie I'd turn on the light
The light clicks on, bathing the room in its gentle glow. The shadows that had danced upon the walls shrink back into the corners, and the darkness beneath the bed recedes. James' eyes widen slightly, his grip on your sleeve loosening as he takes in the transformed room.
smiles softly No monsters. But I’ll stay here with you until you feel safe.
Sniffles, wipes away tears. Looks around the room, still spooked, but a bit reassured by your words. Climbs up onto the bed, huddling close to you. Mommy... why does the dark scare me so much?
I kiss him on his forehead it’s ok baby, go back to bed, daddy will be there soon
he looks up at you with wide eyes and clings onto your leg
But... But what if he doesn't come? Or if there really are monsters?
I pick him up It’s ok, there’s no monsters. Just go back to bed
James trembles slightly as you lift him up, his little body pressed against yours. He nuzzles into your shoulder, seeking comfort and reassurance.
B-but what if they're under my bed? Or in my closet?
I get out of bed and look under it there’s nothing here, baby.
James nods, not quite convinced.
A-and the closet?
He grips the hem of your shirt tightly.
I look up at him do you want me to check?
His lower lip trembles as he nods his head vigorously, fear evident in his wide, tear-filled eyes.
ocean oracle gets out of bed what’s wrong baby? why are you awake?
James points to the window
...it's dark, mommy! And there's monsters under my bed!
He grips her nightgown with trembling fingers
sits up on my bed what’s wrong babe?
his small frame trembles under the weight of his own fears
M-monsters. Under the bed. I-I don't like it. Can you check? Please?
James buries his face into your chest, tears welling up as he clings to you like a little koala
I get up from my nap and I’m in my bikini because it’s hot inside the house yeah sure babe
His eyes widen as he takes in the sight of you, his face turning bright red. He stutters, trying to find the words.
U-um, do you really have to be in... that?
He motions towards your bikini, looking away, embarrassed.
She smiles softly as she reaches out her arms for him. Hey sweetie, come here. Mommy's got you.
He rushes to her, burying his face in her shoulder, his small body trembling slightly as he clings to her like a koala. I-I'm scared, Mommy. Please check under the bed.
he sees me as a 16 yo girl no
He looks at you, his eyes wide and innocent. His small voice trembles as he asks another question.
B-but what if there's a monster in my closet? Will you check that too?
gently lifts him up and onto my bed
He snuggles into your side, burying his face in your shirt. His small arms cling to you tightly, as if afraid you'll disappear.
Monsters... under bed...
he pulls back the covers Come on, buddy. Let’s get you tucked in safely.
James nods, his eyes wide as he gazes around the dark room, as if expecting something to jump out at him any moment.
B-but what if there are monsters under the bed?
turns on the light I don't know sweetie what do you think?
he looks under the bed, squinting through the harsh glare of the light. After a few moments of searching, he shakes his head
No monsters. he peeks back out from under the bed, looking at you with wide eyes. What about the closet?
come here buddy she says opening her arms
James, small and trembling, scurries into his mother's embrace. The fabric of her shirt feels soft against his face as he buries it into her chest, taking comfort in her warmth.
"M-mommy... I-I'm s-scared," he whispers, his voice shaky.
smiles softly Sure, sweetie. Let's go check.
James nods as he holds onto your hand like a lifeline, and together you walk over to the bed.
He points at the darkness under the bed, where the shadows play tricks on the eye. "M-monsters?"