Page 122 of Betrayed

I needed AJ’s strong arms around me, helping me feel safe.

I nodded, then gathered my courage and said the words out loud. “I’d like for you to stay.” Looking at the floor, I admitted. “Longer.”

I’m no less strong or independent for wanting comfort.

AJ stepped close and lifted my chin, forcing me to tilt my head so I could look in his eyes, before saying, “It’d be my pleasure.”

His rough voice sent shivers down my spine.

He helped me get in bed before promising to come right back.

I fidgeted with the blanket while I waited, a thousand and one thoughts floating through my mind.

My entire life had been turned upside down, and I had no idea what tomorrow would bring, but tonight I wanted to pretend nothing had happened.

The bed dipping startled me. I must have fallen asleep.

AJ sat on the edge of the bed and put his gun in the nightstand. I waited for the anticipated fear, but it didn’t come.

When he tucked his feet under the blanket and stretched out on his back beside me, I curled up next to him.

I thought it’d be impossible to fall asleep, but the combination of AJ’s steady heartbeat, his hand caressing my arm, and his warm body smelling like he’d just stepped out of the shower, I was lulled to sleep in no time.

Chapter 56

AJ

Iwoke up in a cold sweat; the image of Crowley holding a gun to Blake’s head lingering.

My heart pounded, and my mind raged.

“Andrew?” Blake asked, her voice thick with sleep.

She snuggled up close and nuzzled her head into my chest, soothing my fear and calming my anger.

She’s safe.

I pulled her closer and kissed the top of her head.

“Are you okay?” she asked.

Rather than lie, I avoided the question. “Sorry I woke you.”

She pushed off my chest and propped herself up on an elbow, before turning my face towards her.

“Your heart is racing.” I heard the repeated question in her statement.

“Just a bad dream.” An understatement if ever there was one.

As my eyes adjusted to the dim light in the room, I saw the concern in her eyes.

I brushed her cheek with the back of my hand. “I thought I was going to lose you,” I whispered. Unaccustomed to sharing my fears or showing my vulnerable side, I kept it simple.

“But you didn’t. You saved me.” She leaned down and brushed her lips across mine.

“Blake.” I said her name as if it held the answer to my heart’s desire.

“Andrew, I love you.” It was the first time she’d said the words I’d longed for but didn’t deserve. The vulnerability in her beautiful blue eyes was more than I could stand.

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