Page 256 of Ignite

“You have bigger things to focus on now, Con. Just let me take this one.”

For once, I actually agree.

Because I can’t let myself get killed. Not now. I won’t leave Hallie behind.

“Okay.”

As he slips out the door, I hold my breath when Hallie walks in.

Her hair’s in a messy bun, glasses perched on her nose, but they don’t disguise the puffiness around her eyes.

Her bottom lip quivers as she closes the door.

“Hi, darlin’.”

“C-Conan.” Her voice breaks, and she rushes to the side of my bed.

I lift my arm and wrap it around her. I just want her close.

I need her near me. My lifeline.

Closing my eyes, I hold back the tears as she sobs against my chest.

“Are you okay, trouble?” I ask.

She sniffles and straightens up, glaring down at me.

“Conan. You’ve just been in a car crash, been shot, nearly died—and you’re asking me if I’m okay?”

Jesus. It’s all a blur.

“You saw everything, Hallie. I need to know you’re okay. That must’ve been terrifying.”

My throat burns when I swallow. Every time I cough, it feels like my lung might come out of my mouth.

“Having the love of your life lose consciousness in your arms was slightly traumatizing, I’m not going to lie. But it doesn’t matter. You’re here, and you’re going to be okay.”

Fuck, every muscle in my body is screaming. But I’m also kind of fuzzy from the painkillers.

“Love of your life?” I ask.

My stomach flips.

“Yes. You remember, don’t you?” She frowns.

I catch hold of her hand.

“Yes. I remember. And I still mean it, Hallie. I love you.”

I hold my breath. What if she only said it because she thought I was dying?

“I love you so much, Conan.”

“Thank God.”

“Come on. Let’s snuggle.” I scoot over, ignoring the pain so she can climb in next to me.

Her head rests on my chest, and I drape my arm over her shoulder.

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