Decisions

They were quiet for a spell. Slaton’s hand reached out to touch her cheek. “I’m just glad you’re alive.”

She smiled weakly. “If you hadn’t gotten there…..”

“Shhh, I know. I saw.”

“I saw him….I thought he killed Layford. I just gave up after that. He was so…”

“Shh.”

“Stop. I have to say this. He was so strong. I've never seen anything like it before. Then when I thought it was all over, you appeared. I couldn’t believe it. I got ready to run. Then you…..”

“I’m fine.”

“I saw you go down. I saw the blood. I just ran. I’m sorry I left you there.”

“No, you did the right thing. If you’d stayed….”

“I had no choice but to jump. I was surprised he didn’t grab before I did.”

“I understand. I just wish you didn’t have to make that decision.”

“I wouldn’t let him take me. I couldn’t. Slaton, you have to know…

“You don’t need to say anymore.”