MAXINE

I was falling into darkness.

Before I hit the ground, strong arms wrapped themselves around me, holding me up. It was Ronan.

“Easy,” he whispered, his voice close to my ear. “I’ve got you. Just hold on.”

I leaned into him. I rested my head against his chest and listened to the steady beat of his heart. His arms tightened around me. I felt a strange sense of comfort. I let out a shaky breath, closing my eyes for a moment. I let myself rest in his arms.

“Maxine, stay ...