Chapter 354

  We’re almost halfway down the huge sweeping staircase, closer to the door and probably a waiting car to take me to never be found alive again. If I let him get me out there, let him take me from this place then all is hopeless. No one will know where to come and find me. I’ll be his to do with as he pleases, and I can’t let it happen.

  Jake won’t survive this, it’ll kill him, it will destroy him. The beautiful soul that makes him who is, will be devastated and broken forever.

  I try to picture him in my mind, to give me strength and courage. His beautiful face and powerful body, that calm demeanor but passionate heart. My body and soul, my reason for breathing; him and our baby. They are my whole world, my life, and my future and no one has the right to take that away from me or to take me away from them.

  I close my eyes tight in determination, and with a slow steadying breath I grab at the smooth wooden rail, resolving to hold on to it with everything that I am.