Page 17 of Echos and Empires
“Yeah, I believe you,” he murmured, his thumb brushing gently over her knuckles. “But that doesn’t mean I won’t stop worrying about you, Emma. You’re too important to me. And in two days time, I’ll collect my promise if I need to.”
The words hung in the air between them, weighted with unspoken emotions. Chris felt a sudden surge of protectiveness, a fierce desire to shield her from any harm that might come her way. He knew he couldn’t control everything, but he silently vowed to do whatever it took to keep her safe.
Tugging her closer, Chris wrapped his arms around her, cradling her against his chest. He felt her relax into his embrace, her head coming to rest on his shoulder. For a moment, he simply held her, savoring the feeling of her warm body pressed against his, the steady rise and fall of her breathing a comforting rhythm.
“I’ve got you, Emma,” he whispered, his lips brushing against her temple. “No matter what happens, I’ve got you.”
SEVEN
Emma saton the edge of the bed, her stomach churning with a familiar nausea. Last night with Chris had been amazing, everything had been in perfect sync, and even after, she’d eaten with no bouts of sickness. But this morning, the distinct swirl of queasiness had returned, settling in the pit of her stomach like a heavy weight.
Her hand drifted absently to her stomach as troubling thoughts swirled in her mind.Maybe I was wrong to assume just because I could have sex, I was fine.
Rising unsteadily to her feet, Emma made her way downstairs and found Alex in the kitchen, meticulously organizing spices. He looked up as she entered, his hazel eyes warm and inviting.
“Hey beautiful,” he greeted her with a charming grin. “What’s up?”
Emma chewed her bottom lip, suddenly unsure. “I was thinking...would you maybe come with me to the doctor?” Her words came out rushed and uncertain. “I know you’re off today, and I know I told Chris I was fine, but I don’t feel right.”
Alex’s brow furrowed. He set down the supplies and stepped closer, searching her face. “Of course, Em. Is everything alright?” Concern laced his tone.
“I don’t know,” she admitted, voice wavering slightly. “I thought it was nothing, but the longer it lasts and the more affected I am, I can’t help but to think I could be letting something get worse. I’d feel better if you came with me.”
“Say no more.” Alex took her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. “I’m here for you, always. Let me just text the guys we’ll be back in a bit.”
Emma nodded gratefully, a lump forming in her throat. Whatever this was, at least she wouldn’t face it alone.
“Ranger,” she called, ignoring the way it seemed to squeeze her stomach. “Ranger, you’re in charge while we’re gone.” She let out a burp that tasted like bile and gagged.
Alex’s demeanor shifted, his playful grin replaced by a look of sharp focus. “Let’s go.” In two strides, he tugged her gently toward the door, letting the sunlight in without warning as he opened it.
Outside, the sun’s warm rays did little to dispel the chill that had settled in Emma’s bones. It was close to winter, but the jungle never felt cold…except sometimes at night and right now.
Alex’s arm remained a constant presence around her waist, a silent promise of support. They walked in tandem, their footsteps echoing against the cobblestone path leading to the medical center.
For everything the island had, cars were not among them for many of the residents, and she almost missed the damn armored truck.
Emma’s mind raced, a kaleidoscope of possibilities spinning behind her eyes.What if something’s really wrong? What if...She shook her head, trying to dislodge the intrusive thoughts.
Alex glanced over, his hazel eyes filled with a mixture of concern and determination.
“Hey,” he said softly, squeezing her waist. “It’s going to be okay. No matter what, we’ll handle it together.” He flashed her a reassuring smile, though the tightness around his eyes betrayed his worry.
Emma leaned into him, drawing strength from his solid frame. “I know. I just can’t help but think...” She trailed off, unable to give voice to the fears swirling in her mind.
Alex nodded in understanding. “Trust me, I get it. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves, yeah? One step at a time.” He cracked a grin, trying to lighten the mood. “Besides, if you get too weak, I can always carry you. Been hitting the gym just for moments like these.”
Despite herself, Emma let out a soft laugh. Leave it to Alex to find humor even in the most uncertain of times. His ability to make her smile, no matter the circumstances, was one of the many reasons she loved him.
“It’s a nice day out, nothing wrong with two people in love taking a walk to make sure they’re both fit as a fiddle.”
“Something tells me there isn’t a day in your life when you weren’t fit as a fiddle.”
“Actually,” Alex snickered. “I was the chubby kid throughout elementary school. Kids teased me that I was fat because my mom made too much food—classic Hispanic mom.”
“I cannot imagine you with anything less than your current physique.”
“Good,” he kissed her cheek, “because this is the one honed to keep you safe.”
