Page 46 of Cowboy
"It's okay," I say quickly, moving to her side. "These are my brothers. They're here to help."
Caoimhe nods, but I can feel her trembling beside me. I wrap an arm around her shoulders, trying to offer some comfort.
"Boys, this is Caoimhe," I say, my voice gentle. "Caoimhe, this is Pyro, Tank, and Bozo. They're family."
The guys nod, keeping their distance, understanding Caoimhe's fear.
"Nice to meet you, Caoimhe," Pyro says softly. "We're glad you're safe now."
Caoimhe manages a small nod, pressing closer to my side. "Thank you," she whispers.
I can see the rage in my brothers' eyes as they take in Caoimhe's fragile state, but they keep their expressions neutral, not wanting to scare her further.
"We just wanted to check in," Tank says. "See if you needed anything."
I shake my head. "We're good for now. Thanks, brothers."
As they turn to leave, Bozo speaks up. "Caoimhe? Grá wanted me to tell you that she's here if you need anything. Day or night."
Caoimhe nods again. "Tell her thank you," she says softly.
Once they're gone, I guide Caoimhe back inside. "You okay?" I ask gently.
She takes a shaky breath. "I... I don't know. It's all so overwhelming."
I nod, understanding. "I know. But you're safe now, I promise. No one's going to hurt you or Saoirse ever again."
Caoimhe looks up at me, her eyes filled with a mixture of fear and hope. "Do you really mean that?" she asks softly.
I nod, cupping her face gently in my hands. "I swear it, Caoimhe. I'll protect you both with my life if I have to."
She leans into my touch, closing her eyes for a moment. When she opens them again, there's a flicker of the old Caoimhe there; the strong, determined woman I remember.
"Thank you," she whispers. "For everything."
Just then, we hear small footsteps on the stairs. Saoirse appears, rubbing her eyes sleepily.
"Caoimhe?" she calls out, her voice trembling slightly.
Caoimhe immediately moves to the little girl, scooping her up in her arms. "I'm here, sweetheart. Did you have a bad dream?"
Saoirse nods, burying her face in Caoimhe's neck. "I dreamed they came back for us," she whimpers.
My heart clenches at the fear in the child's voice. I move closer, speaking softly. "It's okay, Saoirse. You're safe here. No one's going to hurt you."
Saoirse peeks out at me, her eyes wide and wary. "Promise?"
"I promise," I say firmly. "I'll keep you and Caoimhe safe."
Caoimhe strokes Saoirse's hair, murmuring soothing words. I watch them, marveling at the bond between them. Despite all they've been through, they've found comfort and strength in each other.
"How about some hot chocolate?" I suggest, trying to lighten the mood. "That always helps me sleep."
Saoirse's eyes light up a little at this. "With marshmallows?"
I can't help but smile. "Of course. The more, the better."
As I move to the kitchen to prepare the hot chocolate, I hear Caoimhe talking softly to Saoirse, reassuring her. I'm struck by how naturally she's taken on this maternal role; how fiercely protective she is of the little girl.
