Charlisse flew into Merrick's arms. Tears flowed down her cheeks as the tight knot within her unwound.

"Shhh. You're all right now." Merrick rubbed her back, engulfing her in his strong embrace. "I'm so sorry."

Charlisse tried to tell him it wasn't his fault, but the words would not come. All she could do was lean her head on his chest and sob, letting all the tension and terror of the night drain into the warmth of his strong arms.

Merrick lifted her chin and ...