Hailee's POV
My bones felt broken, my body drained, and all I wished was to remain in the comforting arms of Dane. His warmth was the only thing anchoring me, keeping me from floating away. Every muscle of mine ached, but his touch soothed me—his hand stroking my back, his breath steady against my temple. I pressed closer, burying my face in his chest. His scent wrapped around me, comforting me. My throat was raw, my lips swollen, but my heart… it felt full. Every shiver that ran through me was met with his embrace, his voice whispering words meant to tether me back to him.
Dane's arms tightened around me, his chest rising and falling in steady rhythm against my cheek. For a moment, it was easy to forget the chaos waiting for me outside this room. Easy to pretend I could stay here forever, safe in his warmth.
"Hailee…" His voice was rough, hesitant, but full of nervousness. I lifted my head slightly, meeting his eyes. The rawness in them nearly unraveled me.
