Chapter 45

Vivian's chest rose and fell with each breath under the blankets. She slept peacefully.

Alive.

Not chained up or anything. Not appearing to be held against her will.

One of my hands flew to my mouth to catch the sob that threatened to escape. My sister was safe.

Ryan appeared behind me, his arm winding around my shoulder. I leaned into him as relief welled through me and forced out my silent sobs. My hand still over my mouth, I tried to keep quiet so I wouldn't wake Vivian.

I sank down onto the bed, took off my gloves, and slipped a hand underneath one of Vivian's. Her hand felt hot like it had been dipped into an active volcano, and I jerked mine back. What the heck? I trailed my fingertips up Vivian's arm to her neck and face. Everything burned with intense heat.

"She's got a fever," I whispered, turning to Ryan.