Derek was a little startled at the sudden hug and rush of emotion, though he caught her and tentatively patted her back soothingly, still a tad bit stunned at the force of her gratitude but glad he could help and make someone feel so thankful.
Summer tucked the book into the crook of her arm and took his hand, tugging him to his room, where she handed him his book with solemn face and pointed imperiously to the bed. She inspected the space where he hadn’t been before, then sprawled herself out flat with limbs akimbo.
Derek followed as bidden when she tugged him along. He held the book when she pressed it into his hands and watched her sprawl out. “Do… Do you want me to sit with you while you read?” he asked, a little confused.
She huffed a little, making a scolding face at him, and picked up the book he’d been reading before. She pushed it into his hands, took the book she wanted to read, and pointedly flopped back down. Rolling over on to her stomach, she swung her feet up into the air and planted her chin on her hands, giving him a wide, innocent smile.