Chapter ２６

Half stretched out on his broad chest, I muster the strength to protest. Three more birthdays remain. Technically four, but he's true that we should skip through twenty-two. That was a night I'd rather not think about. Never before had I been so appreciative of David's interference as I was that night.

A huge hand runs down the middle of my back, and he rubs it smooth. I can't help it, Anna; I'm just a human being. You've completely exhausted me, man.

I look up, feeling the beginnings of terror in the back of my throat. But if we do go to sleep, by dawn we will be done with this.

David looks at me with those dark eyes that have seen too much in their lifetimes. The question: "Does that worry you?"