Page 59 of Found By You
“We’ll come back,” Azalea said, reaching for Kayla’s hand. “I promise. I just need to know if that’s my brother. I need to see him.”
Damon sighed, rubbing his forehead. “The hospital’s expecting you. I’ve arranged for police protection in Denver. You’ll have an escort.”
“Thank you,” Azalea whispered.
I nodded to Damon, feeling overwhelmingly grateful for his vision.
My mother stepped forward, wrapping Azalea in a tight hug. “You come back to us, you hear? Both of you.” She pulled back, holding Azalea’s face in her hands. “You’ve already become part of this family.”
Tears welled in Azalea’s eyes. “I don’t deserve your kindness.”
“Nonsense,” my father said gruffly. “Armstrongs stick together. And right now, you’re with an Armstrong.”
I looked at my family; strong, stubborn, loyal to a fault. They were worried, but they understood. This was who we were. We protected people.
“We need to move,” I said, checking my watch.
My mother hugged me too.
I hugged her quickly.
Ella came forward. “Be careful, McCrae.”
“Always am,” I replied, trying for a smile that didn’t quite reach my eyes.
Dylan approached next, handing me an envelope. “Emergency funds. And a burner phone. Don’t use your regular cell more than necessary.”
I nodded, tucking both into my jacket pocket. Dylan, ever the lawyer, was thinking five steps ahead. “Thank you.”
Azalea stood surrounded by my family, looking both overwhelmed and grateful. Something fierce and protectivesurged within me. I’d known her less than a week, and already I couldn’t imagine my life without her in it.
We were about to leave when my mother raised her hand. “Wait. Armstrongs pray together too.” She looked around the room, her gaze settling on each of us in turn. “Let’s say a prayer and ask for God’s protection on both of you.” She turned to Azalea with a gentle smile. “And your brother.”
We formed a circle, hands linked. My father’s callused palm was in my right hand; Azalea’s slender fingers were in my left.
My mother closed her eyes. “Heavenly Father,” she began, her voice steady and sure, “we ask for your divine protection over McCrae and Azalea as they travel to Denver. Guard them against all harm and guide their steps. Be with them as they search for answers, and Lord, if it is your will, let them find Azalea’s brother safe and healing. Give the doctors wisdom. Give Greg strength. And Lord, bring them all back to us safely. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
“Amen,” we echoed, the word hanging in the quiet room.
“Let’s go,” I said softly, squeezing Azalea’s arm.
She nodded, saying quick goodbyes to my family.
“Be ready for anything,” Damon warned. “And call me the moment you know something.”
“We will.”
As we stepped out of the station, Azalea’s hand found mine. Her fingers were cold, but her grip was strong. “Whatever happens in Denver,” she said, her voice steady despite the fear I knew was coursing through her, “thank you for coming with me.”
I squeezed her hand. “Whatever happens in Denver,” I echoed, “it will be okay.”
Chapter 28
Azalea
The highway stretched before us. I stared out the window, watching as trees and rock formations blurred past. My thoughts were a tangled mess of worry for Greg as I processed everything that had happened in the past few days.
“I hope I didn’t overstep back there,” I said finally, breaking the silence, “in saying that we’re seeing each other.”
