When Kari woke again, Evan’s heavy arm was slung across her waist, holding her close. His body curved protectively around hers, his face pressed into the crook of her neck, his soft breaths warm against her skin.
The doctor had given her something for the pain earlier, and she had drifted back into sleep. She still ached everywhere, but the edge of it had dulled. Judging by the dimness of the room, it had to be night, though she wasn’t certain. Time felt slippery, leaving her oddly disoriented.
The door creaked open. Kari turned her head, spotting Joe in the doorway, his black hair rumpled and his expression cautious.
“You’re awake,” he murmured, shutting the door quietly behind him.
“I am,” she whispered back. “But he’s not.”
Joe nodded as he came closer. “I won’t stay long. You were
