Page 94 of Tell Me Everything
He wanted to say how reckless she'd been to risk her life like that, how worried he'd been. Seeing her alive and relieved, it didn't matter anymore. All that mattered was that she was here, now.
“How do you feel?”
“Like someone who almost died of asphyxiation. The hospital food, on the other hand, is disgusting. As soon as I get out of here, let’s get some bubble tea.”
She beckoned him closer, and Alex took her in his arms. He still couldn't believe she was back, even if she'd only been unconscious for a few hours. Elena hugged him back. Everythingwould be all right for them.
“I really thought you weren't coming back.”
“Of course, I would have come back. I'll always come back for you.”
Alex raised his head. His tears flowed more freely. He always felt vulnerable with her, in the best way possible.
“Don't be so cheesy.”
“But you're very taken with my cheesiness.”
Elena gently rubbed his cheeks, never ceasing to smile.
“I mean it, Alex. You're my better half. Nothing can keep me away from you.”
When his tears kept falling, Elena laughed, ruffling his hair.
“What a softy! You look like I'd just told you your puppy died.”
“I'm sorry, I...”
“Never be sorry for having feelings.”
Alex lay down beside her. Now that she was here, he wouldn't let her go.
“Where's Frank?” Alex wondered.
He had to know. Elena rested her head against his shoulder.
“In jail. He won't get out in the next few months. And then he won't be able to approach us, according to the lawyers.”
“Is that what you were trying to accomplish the other night?”
Elena nodded. She'd managed to get the bastard away from her for good. All by herself.
“So, it's all over now?”
“Yes.”
Alex kissed her temple, and Elena pressed herself against him.
“I'm proud of you.”
Chapter 31
Elena
Nina, Sophie, and Alex had come to visit me at the hospital. The last few times I'd been here, I'd always been alone. It was good to know I had friends who cared now. We played Cluedo without Alex. Since he'd arrived here half an hour earlier, he hadn't looked up from his iPhone. Something was bothering him. I wanted to ask what was going on, but I knew Alex wouldn't talk while my friends were around.
Alex looked up at the door and smiled at someone. I turned my head to see who was there and felt my heart clench.
“Hi,” Kelsey said, giving me an uncertain smile.
