It hurt—a sharp, instinctive reaction as Van awoke, gripping Winnie's arm so tightly her bones ached. She lost her balance, one knee landing between his legs, her hand braced awkwardly against his chest, barely keeping herself from falling fully into his lap.

"It's you." Van's voice was low as he opened his eyes, his gaze still heavy with the fog of sleep, looking down at her from above. After a moment, he spoke in a deep, husky tone, "What were you trying to do?"

With one hand ...