Victoria

Malachi surged back to life with a startling, racking cough. I reared back in shock, my backside hitting the ground painfully. Through the tears still clouding my vision, I watched him slowly register his new surroundings before his gaze finally settled on me.

"Vicky," he croaked, his voice brittle and thin.

I slammed my palms against his chest, more tears spilling down my face. "You scared me! I thought you were dead!"

Malachi grunted at the impact, and I immediately withdrew, ...