In the Shadow of Fear - Part 8

RETH

Elia lay in his arms, deeply and soundly asleep, her hair fluttering in the breeze of her breath, washing the room in her scent. And he was grateful. But over an hour later, Reth found himself still wide awake and staring at the ceiling of the cave, his trembling arms still curved around her.

He was beginning to sweat. His heart skipped beats and throbbed in his ears.

He forced himself to breathe deeply and quietly because he didn't want to wake her—she needed her rest. But his own body refused to rest—and in fact, seemed determined to drag him into fear.

He couldn't get close enough. Trying not to jostle her, he dropped his nose against her hair and inhaled her scent, reminding all of his senses that she was there. Right there. She would not be taken from him again, he wouldn't allow it!