Page 92 of Gunnar

He chose me.

He didn’t take it back.

I close my eyes.

It doesn’t help.

Nothing is settled.

Nothing is safe.

And for the first time since this all began, that thought does not make me want to run.

19

Alexandria

I’ve been trying to stay out of the common areas all morning. The lodge is big enough that it’s easy to disappear if I want to, and after last night, disappearing feels like the safest option.

But eventually thirst wins. I check that Tabitha is still snoozing on a chair in the corner and slip out into the hallway.

The kitchen is quiet, but I have the sense that it’s occupied. I walk a little louder than I need to, letting my steps carry along the wooden floor.

As I reach the doorway, I see Torin leaning against the counter, looking thoughtful.

And Gunnar… sitting at the table, bent over a pair of boots, fiddling with the laces.

My stomach flips.

“Am I interrupting something?” I ask.

“No,” Torin says easily.

Gunnar looks up like he’s dragging himself out of deep thought. “No.”

“Just getting some water,” I say.

I go to the sink, aware of everything—my steps, the sound of the tap, the fact that Gunnar is right there behind me.

I drink the glass straight down, keeping my back turned.

God. When did I start swallowing so loudly?

I fill it again, drink slower this time.

“Want to run an errand with me?” Gunnar’s voice cuts through the silence, and I turn, caught off guard.

“You mean… away from the lodge?”

“Yeah.” He shrugs, like it’s nothing.

“I’ll need you to stay out of sight, but I figured you might enjoy the change of scene.”

My heart lifts. “I’ll get my shoes,” I say, already skittering down the hallway.

“And sunglasses if you’ve got them,” he shouts after me.

I make sure Tabitha has food and water, then kiss her little head, and tell her I’ll be back soon.