A rag was tossed at Derek. He wrapped it around my leg, careful to not press on the glass sticking out of it. I’d been afraid to pull out the larger pieces because I didn’t have anything to stop the bleeding.
“Okay, I’m going to lift you into my arms. I’ll try to be gentle. Okay?”
I nodded.
“Wrap your arm around my neck, sweetheart.”
“Okay.” I sniffled, my body shaking. I clung to Derek as he took me into his arms. Relief washed over me, feeling his chest against me. I was safe. As he pulled me out of the closet, four men ran into the shack. I instantly recognized York and Axel. Their eyes fell to my legs, and York immediately put his phone to his ear and barked orders. The other two men I’d never seen before.
“I’ll take her,” Axel said, reaching for me.
“I got her,” Derek snapped.
I tightened my grip around his neck. “No. I want Derek.”
Axel scowled but nodded.
“Let’s get her out of here,” Derek said. “She needs medical attention.”
I scanned the small room, wondering where Jason was. My body was trembling, my throat dry. I didn’t have an ounce of energy. “Where’s Jason?” I murmured.
Norris stepped forward with a towel in hand and draped it over me. His eyes were filled with grief as he took me in.
“I’m sorry, miss. I’m so sorry about all of this.”
“No. Thank you for finding me,” I whispered. “Where’s Jason?”
“He won’t be bothering you again.” Norris’s sad eyes turned cold. I didn’t question him further.
Derek carried me out of the shack with Norris on one side and Axel on the other.
I’m safe. Safe. We’re safe.I touched my stomach as more tears fell. I hoped my baby was still alive.
The frigid night air encased me. I was so cold, so very cold. I gasped for air, unable to draw any in. My mind raced at the same rate as my heart.Will. My vision blurred as blackness clouded around me, and my hand fell away from Derek.
“She’s going into shock” was the last thing I heard.
The last twenty-one hours were hell. The worst I’d ever experienced. After Derek, Norris, and the others rescued me, I’d fainted and awakened in an ambulance. They’d taken me to the hospital, where my injuries were taken care of and I was given fluids and antibiotics. The doctors monitored the baby and me for the next eight hours.
Once I was released, all five of my bodyguards escorted me home to shower, change, and pack a light bag so they could take me back home to California. Nina was sweet and understanding as I knew she would be when I called to tell her I was needed in L.A. and wouldn’t be returning to Radiance. She didn’t question why and only wished me luck—such a kind woman.
The sight of three motorcycles and a black Escalade in front of my little cottage earlier was quite the sight. I had actually snapped a picture. I figured one day, years from now, we might laugh at it.
I was out of my mind with worry for Will, who had yet to wake up. He needed me as I needed him after the nightmare I’d been through.
“Will you be okay? I can come with you if you want?” Derek asked as we stood on the tarmac. SJI’s jet was waiting for us to returnhome.
I glanced at the scary-looking men behind me, who were all wearing dark shades with don’t-fuck-with-me expressions. I felt pretty damn safe.
“I’ll be okay.” I jerked my chin toward the guys. “I have my bodyguards with me.”
Derek nodded and reached for my hand. “If you ever need anything—anything—don’t hesitate to call me.”
I cradled his cheek with my good hand, since the other was wrapped in bandages. I lifted on my tiptoes and kissed his cheek softly. He wrapped his arms around me and hugged me.
“Thank you. I won’t ever be able to repay you for—”
He stopped me with his finger on my lips. “Hush now. You don’t owe me a thing. I just want you to be happy.”