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I don’t think. Before my next breath, my body propels forward, moving on its own. I see Leo running from the other side, but he’s going to be too late . . . so am I.
Scooping Riley into my arms, I turn her away from the car just in time.
Pain explodes in my leg and hip. I curve my body around the small figure in my arms, trying to protect her.
Pain spreads through me from one place to the next as I hit the windshield and fly off the car. Seeing the asphalt coming quickly, I turn again, putting my body below Riley and stretch my arm out to catch us.
Stupid move. I feel the bone break. My whole body feels like it’s on fire.
Groaning, I try to breathe through the pain, through the panic.
Riley! Is she okay?
I try to say the words aloud, but it’s like my body has shut down. The only thing I know is I have to protect Riley.
Something shifts my body, pulling my arms, but I hold my girl tighter. I can’t let her get hurt.
Words filter in, muffled and strained.
Leo.
I blink, trying to see, but my vision is blurred.
“It’s me, Shelby.”
I blink again. He doesn’t sound right.
“Let Riley go.”
But I can’t, my arm doesn’t feel right. My body shakes uncontrollably.
I feel my hold on Riley being lifted before the weight of her small form leaves me.
Is she okay?
I try to ask, but nothing happens. The voices above me mesh. The only thing seeping in is the sound of a young child crying.
Riley!
Hands smooth over my legs, and someone grabs my hand, holding on for dear life.
“Riley,” I try again, but no sound escapes me.
My body is jostled and lifted. It feels like I’m moving, but I can’t focus enough to see. The crying follows, and my heart breaks open.
I didn’t protect her.
I didn’t save my baby.
CHAPTER THIRTY-SEVEN
Leonard
My world is shattered.
My baby girl clings to Michael Cromwell, and quiet sobs leave her shaking. Her eyes are riveted to where Shelby lies quietly on the stretcher, while the paramedic rushes to start an IV.
But cries are good, it means she’s awake. Physically, she looks okay, but I’ve been a doctor long enough to know that fact means little in situations like this. So if holding Michael makes Riley feel better, then so be it.
