Sick

Watkins Glen appeared through the thick treeline. For days, I had dreamt of returning, of feeling safe again.

But as we crossed the road leading to the entrance, my stomach twisted. 

This wasn't my home. And it never would be. 

The guards at the entrance stiffened, their weapons shifting slightly as they recognized Ronan and me. Then, as if snapping out of their training, they hurried forward. 

"Open the gates!" one of them barked, and the thick steel doors groaned as they slid apart. 

Before I could take another step, I was wrapped in a crushing embrace. 

"Hailey," Ellie whispered, her voice trembling. I barely had time to breathe before Cooper pulled me into his arms next, holding me just as tightly. 

"You're back," he murmured into my hair, his voice thick with relief. "God, we thought—" He pulled away, eyes flicking to Ronan. "You made it."