Be prepared.
“We’re a minute away.” Hayden’s voice brought me back from my thoughts. I watched the bedroom door. I was in the corner of the room where I could see the entrance to the bedroom and also the door that led to the private porch.
“I’m still in the bedroom.”
A silhouette ran by the window, the footsteps heavy, and my heart raced faster. I raised my gun, prepared to shoot if I needed to. “Whoever it was just ran by the bedroom window.”
“We’re coming down the driveway. I’m going to come inside, and Kane’s going after the son of a bitch. He’s going to run by your bedroom. Don’t shoot him.”
They were almost here, and my voice quavered for the first time. “O—okay.”
I had to go through the steps to calm down again before the fear consumed me.
Remain calm.
Assess the situation.
React to what happens.
Think about what could happen.
Be prepared.
I had to stay focused so I didn’t make a critical mistake.
Hayden’s truck screeched to a stop. There were thunderous steps as Kane ran by, calling. “Grab the scent, Mariah!”
With one bark, they were gone.
Hayden’s voice came through the phone. “Alexa, I’m using the key Drake gave me. I’m going to hang up now and call him. When I enter the house, I’m going to let you know.”
“Okay.”
The door opened, and I heard Hayden call, “I’m in the house. Please don’t shoot me. I have too pretty a face.”
With a nervous chuckle, I pulled my finger away from the trigger and reengaged the safety.
The bedroom door cracked opened. “Alexa, it’s me.”
“Back here.”
The door opened, and Hayden walked in with his gun drawn but pointed toward the floor. “Drake. She’s fine. I’ve got her.”
I raced into Hayden’s chest. My breaths became more labored as I began to feel safe.
I’m going to be okay. I’m going to survive.
“Hey, we’re here. You’re okay.”
My body shook as the adrenaline subsided. Someone had tried to break into the house.
The gun was removed from my hand. “Yes, Drake. She’s just shaken. I swear. Hold on.” He pulled back a little. “Hey, he wants to talk to you.”
My hands were trembling as I took the phone. “Drake.”
At his name, I couldn’t hold back a sob.
“Thank fuck. Baby, are you okay?”