“I did. Layla will be by in a bit. She was getting you some clothes.”

I glance at my hospital gown. “This gown isn’t exactly my style.”

“You look fabulous.”

“What time is it? I didn’t call Tessa.” I sit up and wince.

“Tessa knows where you are. I’ve been giving people updates. They got you in for surgery first thing this morning, but I wanted you to have time to wake up after, so I told people not to come until later.” He rubs my shoulder.

“I can see why you love your found family.”

“Ourfound family.” His smile is tender, loving. “You can’t go home today, but doctor said maybe tomorrow.”

The wordhomebrings tears to my eyes. The reality of losing everything and having no place to go hits me.

With his thumb, he brushes away my tears. “Beau and Lilith have invited us to stay in their guest rooms. She feels horrible, as if she has any control over lightning. But I told them we’d stay there temporarily.” He adjusts my covers. “You’ll have lots of people close while you recover, and I’ll be on the other side of the wall, just like before.” He yawns and slaps a hand over his mouth. “Sorry about that.”

“You can go back to the ranch and sleep. I’ll be fine.”

His head wags back and forth. “Not a chance.”

“Then at least sleep in the chair. You’re exhausted.”

“I have an idea.” He drags the chair close so that it’s facing the bed. Then he sits and leans forward, resting his head on my good leg.

I run my fingers through his hair, and he sighs. Soon, his breathing changes, and he’s asleep.

Keeping one hand on his head, I close my eyes.

The medicine makes it easy to sleep, but having Archer close makes it easy to relax. I fall into a restful sleep.

My nap ends when my phone beeps. It’s on the rolling table beside the bed, which surprises me. It must’ve been in my pocket when he carried me out of the house, but so much of last night is a blur. I mostly remember the kissing. And I’m trying to forget the fire.

I read the message twice to ensure that I’m not having a medicine-induced hallucination.

Mom:Archer told me that I almost lost you. In more ways than one, I think. I’m sorry. Wes is in jail, and I’m checking into rehab. Hopefully for the last time. I’m forwarding you a name and number. He’s the man to contact about that inheritance.

I stare at the message, wondering why Archer called her and what magic words he said to make her care.

Then another message pops up.

Mom:I love you, Violet, but I’ve done a crap job as your mom, and I’m sorry.

Me:I love you too.

Forgiving her might take me some time, but she’s my mom, and I love her in spite of all the bad stuff.

I’m still staring at my phone when there’s a soft knock and the door swings open.

Anderson steps in, carrying a duffel bag, a pizza box, and a small white bag. He whispers, “Hey there.”

Archer doesn’t stir.

I smile. “Hi. How’s your sister?”

“She’s good.” He sets the box and bag on the rolling table and drops the duffel on the floor. “I wasn’t sure what y’all liked on pizza, so I went with pepperoni. And Tessa sent some donuts.”

“Tell her I said thanks.”