Page 12 of Echoes in the Night

“Please Jax. I’ll feel safer, too.”

The little minx. Already she’s playing me.

Pushing from the mini-couch, I grab my cover. Laying on top of the quilt, I throw the extra blanket over myself. She immediately snuggles her backside against me and sighs.

“That’s better. Now I can sleep.”

She’s out like a light. I lay there wide-awake listening to her breathing and wishing for what can’t be.

Close to dawn she begins to whimper. She’s thrown off the covers and seems trapped in a dream. Or more likely a nightmare.

“Please, let me go. Please. I’m—cold.”

I roll to my side and snuggle her back to my chest, pulling the blankets around us both. “You’re okay, babe. I got you. I’ll keep you warm and safe.”

“Jax?”

“Yeah, babe, it’s me.”

“Don’t leave me. Please don’t leave me.”

“I won’t. I’m right here. I got you.”

“Promise me. I know you won’t break your promise.”

“I’m here, babe. As long as you need me.”

“Say it.”

“I promise.” I’d promise you anything, babe. And die trying to give it to you.

A couple hours later she wakes again. This time she’s subdued but more relaxed. She clasps my hand and pulls it to her chest. “You saved me.”

“Yes, you’re safe here.”

“You saved me twice. From the storm and from my dream.”

I can’t help myself. I lean in and kiss her neck. “I’ll always save you.”

She sighs. “I know.”

“I need to stoke the fire, and I’ll put coffee on. Sleep, stay in bed as long as you want. I’ll check outside and see if my satellite is working.”

“I want to get up. Can I take a shower?”

“Yes. I’ll get you some clean clothes. Give me a minute to hit the bathroom then it’s all yours.”

After getting her set up with clean clothes and a fresh towel. I get the fire cranked up and load the wood stove. I can hear humming from the bathroom.

She amazes me. Her resilience is astounding. She’s strong and capable and she’s not gonna let this win. I saw the shadows in her eyes but she’s not giving in. She’s a fighter.

The sky is still mostly covered with clouds. I check my satellite phone and I’ve got one bar. I shoot a message to Clay just in case it goes through.

Clay: Sketchy connection. Storm. Found a woman in the woods. Someone tried to kill her. Name, Maura. Safe. Don’t trust anyone.

Sighing I put the phone back on the charger. I need to try to get her to remember. Information is the key to her safety.

Chapter Eight

---