She woke up startled, her eyes wide with fear. It took her a moment to realize where she was.

When she saw Ryan, her panic slowly reduced."I had a nightmare," she whispered, tears welling up in her eyes.

Ryan nodded, sitting on the edge of the bed. "I know. You're safe now, Iris. No one can hurt you here.

With a look of helplessness on her face, she looked up at him. "Thank you, Ryan."Gently, he extended his hand and held hers. "Iris, you don't have to thank me.

"They sat in silence for a ...