Melissa lay beside Matt, burying her head in his chest, feeling for once complete. Matt closed his eyes and pulled her close. It had been such a long time since he'd held anyone. The last time he remembered was Gabrielle, before he left New Orleans. Near as he could tell, Melissa would be fine, physically. Luckily enough for both of them, his blood had healed her and stopped the insane longing she felt. But he didn't know for how long. He hoped it would be forever, a permanent thing, but he couldn't be sure. He had to go, he knew that. He had never intended to stay this long. A quick meal had turned into what he hoped wouldn't be a lasting thing. Seeing Melissa sleeping peacefully in his arms made him feel a longing for the companionship he had left behind. All at once in a rush of emotions, Matt knew he couldn’t leave. He needed someone to be with, and Melissa needed someone too.

"Matt, stay with me?" She murmured half asleep, as if sensing his decision.

"I will Melissa, I'll stay always." With that, he kissed her head and they slept.

A knock at the door startled Melissa awake. She was momentarily afraid to find herself in a motel room, and not alone. After a second and a quick look she saw Matt beside her and remembered. Slipping out of his grasp, she walked over to the door, quietly opening it. it was the maid type person, asking about the room. Melissa told her they're weren't done with the room, and to come back later. Matt was still asleep. Melissa had work, and she wasn't sure how many days she had already missed. Walking to the bathroom, she looking in the mirror and swore softly. Her face was bruised from the accident. That hadn't healed and with her absence, it would look suspicious. Matt had promised to stay, but she had to go. As much as she hated it, she had a job, a life, pitiful as it was. She would live like a vampire with him, but she knew he was staying. Melissa sat on the bed beside him, watching him sleep on his side. He didn't look like a vampire, he just looked sweet and peaceful. From what she had learned of vampires, Matt broke the stereotype. No evilness, no demonic side, unable to turn into a wolf, or a bat. More human than immortal and more perfect than any man she had ever known. He'll know if I leave, she thought, He knows my thoughts. Pulling her hair back loosely, she grabbed the keys from the table and started out the door, then hesitated, walking back and lightly kissing him on the cheek. He rolled over and opened his eyes.

"I'll go to your apartment when the sun goes down." He muttered, voice full of sleep. She smiled and nodded.

"I'll leave the door open."