Page 27 of Bones

Fucking shit fuck.

I ran my gaze down the tiny woman again, not believing what I saw. She wasn’t geared up in the hiking boots, thick socks, andwarm clothes a trek in the uncharted environment called for. She wasn’t even wearing a thin and useless outfit that would be better suited for a workout in a warm gym.

She was in a dress. It had long sleeves and hung almost to her ankles, but still.

A damndress.

“What’re you doing out here?” My muttered question was more to myself than her, which was good since I wasn’t getting an answer.

I ran my free hand down my face to my beard as I tried to figure out what the hell to do.

As far as I was concerned, there was only one option, but even I knew it would sound batshit crazy.

With no other choice, I reluctantly released my hold and took half a step back. I’d intended for it to be a larger one, but my body fought against the small amount I’d managed. “My house is a good trek from here, but it’s closer than the road.” Before she could get spooked, I rushed on. “You don’t have to come in. Like I said, my phone is in my truck. You can use it to call someone. Hell, you can take my truck. Keys are still in the cup holder.”

I’m rambling like I’m unhinged.

Christ, I’m nervous.

When was the last timethathappened?

I had no idea. What I did know was I needed to get my shit together before she took off again. Because fucked as it was, there was no way I’d let her run from me.

Not when I’d spent centuries waiting for her.

Her brows shot up at my insane offer before she looked off to the side. She stayed like that for a moment, likely trying to decide whether she should risk it with the bugs and wild animals.

A hard tremble went through her, and I wanted to kick my ass twice as hard.

I’m a dumbass.

Taking off my work jacket, I held it out to her, but she didn’t make any moves to take it. She didn’t even glance at it.

“It’s worn out, but it’s warmer than nothing.” I stepped close enough to drape it over her, and she jumped a mile, letting out a choked yelp like I’d startled her. I snatched my hand away and took a few big steps back. “Shit, sorry.”

She shook her head, but with the distance, I couldn’t see her expression. It was probably for the best because if I saw her fear, I’d get it, but it would still gut me.

“You want, I’ll follow you until you get to your car,” I offered before adding, “farbehind you. I just want to be sure you get there safely.”

And I’ll use that time to work out how to get you to see me again.

When the silence stretched, I tapped my chest. “Inside pocket of that coat. There’s a pocketknife. Carry it.” An image of her tripping sent panic through me. “Just walk carefully.”

She hesitated before shaking her head.

“Can’t let you go alone,” I said firmly.

She shook her head again.

I wasn’t sure what she wanted or what to ask to figure it out.

She let out a little growl that would’ve been cute as fuck had she not paired it with yanking at her long hair.

“Hey, whoa.” I closed the space between us to grip her wrists and pry her hands away. “Gimme a second, I’m slow on the uptake but stubborn. I’ll get there. Want me to walk with you?”

She shook her head before pointing over my shoulder with one of the hands I still held, but she didn’t try to get away from me.

I didn’t feel whole. I’d spent my entire existence as half a man with half a soul, and years as even less. I wasn’t sure I’d ever feel completely full again.

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