“You don’t have to,” I murmur into the pillow. “I don’t want you to pity me. Or treat me like a patient.”
“Never. You’re mine. Iwantto be with you when you’re happy, when you’re hurt. Ineedto be there.”
“Really?”
“I’m already out the door.”
I sniffle. “Okay.”
A door slams in the background. “You’re going to let me take care of you.”
“Yes.”
“Good girl.” His praise washes over me, warming me through until he arrives.
By the time he steps into my apartment, my tears have dried enough that I can see him clearly. His damp hair. His soft loungewear. His gaze roaming over me.
God, he’s so beautiful.
“Hey.” I manage half a smile. A wobbly one.
“Come here,” he says, but instead of folding me into a hug, he scoops me into his arms and carries me down the hallway. “Which room is yours?”
“That one.” I point, snuggling closer to his chest.
With each passing second, I feel more protected. More cherished.
Safer.
So safe that my eyes start to flutter shut, my defenses lowering. I don’t need them when Alaric’s here to shield me from my worst nightmares.
In no time at all, we’re both under the covers, our legs tangled, his hand stroking my hair. “Want to continue our conversation?”
“Another day.” I yawn. “Tonight, I want you.”
“You have me.” He presses the softest kiss to my forehead. “And when you’re ready to talk, I’ll be here. Waiting.”
“You’re too”—my body sinks into the bed as my eyes close—“much.”
“Not enough, apparently,” I think I hear him say.
I would’ve told him he’s wrong, but I can’t.
Sleep steals me away.
16
ALARIC
After stabilizing my patient, I’m looking forward to heading to the cafeteria to see whether Lilith can take a lunch break.
It’s only been a few hours, and I’m already itching to see her. To kiss her plump lips until one of the cafeteria customers demands her attention.
Before I go anywhere, though—Harold.
He was alive at dawn when I dropped by to change his underwear, feed him, and force water down his throat. But after the hell I put him through, I have to check on him.
He can’t die just yet.