Page 63 of The Wolf I Sworn To Hate

“Where are they?” William asked.

Sean spoke up. “They are taken care of.”

William gave him a hard-searching look and nodded.

Macie was visibly shaken. “I can’t believe it. I thought he was such a nice man. We even talked about hanging out after we got off this blasted mountain. I can’t believe he was such a monster. I was so blind.”

Xyla patted her knee. “Monsters are great at hiding their true identity. Anyone who knew Ted Bundy thought that he could never harm anyone. He was a charming, intelligent man who fooled everyone, including the famous true crime author, Ann Rule. The world is full of people who do a great job of hiding their intentions and true identity.”

Macie shook her head. “I think I’m going to be sick.”

“I’m glad you’re okay,” Elliot said. “I was worried about you.”

“I know. Thank the heavens that Sean and Sawyer showed up when they did. I wouldn’t have survived the ordeal if they hadn’t.”

She studied her father’s face, hoping that he would admit that he was wrong about Sean. Then she could admit in front of everyone that she was in love with him and wanted to be with him. However, he simply nodded and stood up. Elliot patted her arm and went back into his room.

Xyla overheard Sawyer quietly say, “At least he didn’t hit you this time.”

“What do you mean by that?” she asked sharply.

Sawyer turned around, startled. “What?”

“What did you mean when you said at least he didn’t hit you this time?”

Sawyer and Sean exchanged glances. Sean frowned at Sawyer, who shrugged.

“Your father thought that I had something to do with your disappearance. When Sawyer and I came back in from our run, he punched me in the face and gave me a bloody nose.”

A flash of anger coursed through her. “I’m going to kill him.” She started walking to the bedroom.

Sean grabbed her arm. “Don’t. He was frightened because you were missing and his hatred has made him blind. I’m fine. We’re all good.”

Xyla hesitated and then nodded. She was distracted when Edward rushed up to her and wrapped his arms around her waist.

“I was so scared. I thought you were lost forever.”

She hugged her brother. “I’m okay and I’m here. Everything is great.” She yawned widely. “I think I need to take a nap.”

“Can I come with you? I’ll be quiet, I promise.”

Xyla realized that Edward was too terrified to let her out of his sight.

William realized the same thing. “The fire is burning in the library. We’ll take a couple of blankets in there and you can snooze on the couch or recliners. Edward can hang out and play his game or watch a movie.”

“That’s a great idea. Thank you.”

She hugged Sawyer and kissed his cheek. Then, she hugged Sean and held on to him for a while. Xyla didn’t know whethershe felt like sobbing or laughing. She brushed a kiss across his lips.

“Thank you, both. I don’t know what I would have done. You are my knights in gray fur.”

Sean chuckled and bowed. “We do our best to serve and protect and serve, madam. However, you had a part in saving yourself. You weren’t a helpless victim or just a damsel in distress. You were strong and brave.”

Sawyer squeezed her shoulder. “He’s right. You should be very proud of yourself.”

“Maybe later, after my nap.”

“That sounds like a sound plan. I could use one of those, myself,” Sean said.

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