Page 6 of Freeing Emily

“Thank you, Doc.” I offer him a small smile that he returns before exiting the room.

“Were you able to finish showering or do you need help?”

“You’re not helping me.” I can’t hide the repulsion in my voice.

Rhys snorts when Declan’s face twists with disgust.

“I was going to have Ingrid help you,” he grunts.

“I think I can manage. Just won’t use the rain showerhead.” I shrug.

“Alright, be careful.”

Declan strides over and places a gentle kiss on the top of my head then makes his way to the door. Rhys shoots me a wink then follows him out.

A few days later, I walk slowly down the steps to avoid too much irritation to my stitches as I make my way over to the front door. I spot Liam walking in the same direction from the hallway.

“Liam!” I call out before I have a chance to talk myself out of it.

His head whips around to the sound of my voice and I watch as his gaze travels down my body. His Adam’s apple bobs up and down when he swallows tightly.

I lightly bite my bottom lip as I absorb his attention.

When he meets my eyes, I turn into a blushing fool. There is a clear heat there and I can feel it burning into my body like a hot Arizona summer.

Shoving his hands into his pockets, he clears his throat.

“Anythin’, you need?” His Irish accent is thick and unconsciously seductive.

“I… Uh.” I rack my brain for a reason for calling his name as I make my way closer to him.

His head quirks slightly and he raises a brow.

“I wanted to see how you were doing. You ran out of my room pretty fast the other day.” I lower my chin slightly to hide the embarrassing blush that threatens to spread over my face.

He straightens and rolls his shoulders back.

“Yeah, everythin’ is good.” He nods and gives me a tight smile.

“Oh. Good. That’s good.”

This whole exchange is painfully awkward now that he has hidden the heat from his eyes.

“Listen, I’ve gotta get goin’.” He gestures his thumb over his shoulder.

“Right. I guess I’ll see you later then?” I can’t help the hope that leaks in my tone.

“Er… Yeah.”

When I smile at him, I swear I see longing in his eyes before he steels his features and leaves.

The tips of my fingers lightly brush along the vibrant flower petals as I walk through the garden. My da had this specificallymade for my ma before she decided to stay in Ireland to take care of my grandma. Now, it’s mine.

The garden is my favorite place on the property. The honeybees, hummingbirds, and butterflies moving from flower to flower fill me with so much contentment. I love sitting among the foliage and watching them. It brings me a sort of peace despite the crazy lifestyle I lead.

Finding a soft patch of grass, I lay out the throw blanket I brought with me and lie down. My bright red hair fans out and I watch as clouds move slowly across the blue sky.

It’s silent aside from the soothing sounds of the tree leaves rustling with the gentle wind. My eyes flutter closed, and I listen to the peaceful noises around me. A soft smile spreads over my face when I hear the songbirds’ melodies.

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