Page 5 of Finding Forever

I blink at her, then take the phone. “Thanks. Stay away from the windows.”

I ignore the eyeroll and cross the dark kitchen, phone to my ear. A blue flame flickers under a pot on the stove.

“Beck?”

“Luke, Kit says you’re hit.”

“Yeah.” His voice steadies me. “Fucker got me in the shoulder. Hurts like a bitch, but I’m functioning. He’s wounded too.”

I outline our situation. The conversation is quick and direct. I listen. Swallow. “So no backup.”

“As soon as the storm breaks, we’re coming,” he says. “For now, you’re on your own. Kit’s smart and steady as they come. You can trust her.”

Already saw that firsthand. “Good to know.”

“Check in hourly and we’ll hope the landlines hold.”

“Will do.”

I disconnect and edge toward the sink window, keeping to the side. Nothing but white. Briggs could be ten feet away and I wouldn’t see him. Dusk is coming fast. Warm as the kitchen is, I’m shaking. I need to lock this place down before I pass out.

Kit turns off the flame on the stove, then opens the door of the room with the growling dog and sets the shotgun inside. She scoops up a small beagle-mix, its tail wagging hard.

“This is Penny. Let her sniff you so she’ll settle down.”

Penny noses my hand, then leans in as I rub her head.

Kit sets her down then turns to me. “You’re done standing. Come in and lie down. I need to look at your shoulder.”

“I’m fine.”

“Marshal, you’re pale and swaying.”

I don’t move. Ice is seeping into my bones, my head feels heavy, and I’m barely holding on to consciousness. It scares the shit out of me. I can’t afford to go down. I scrub a hand over my face and lean against the doorframe.

“You have medical training?”

Her hands go to her hips. “No. But I’ve got an electric blanket, first aid supplies, and Google.”

“Christ.”

“You’re a charming man, Marshal Elliott.”

“Briggs won’t freeze out there,” I rasp. “He’ll try for shelter.” My vision is graying around the edges.

“I know.”

“You got any neighbors? Anyone else at risk?”

“The two cabins on the road are empty. It’s only us.” She nudges my hand higher on the jamb. “Hold on. I’m grabbing supplies.”

She returns minutes later and ducks under my arm, strong and steady. “Lean.”

I do. I blink rapidly. Everything’s dimming fast.

Next thing I register is a mattress under me, Kit’s face above mine, worry softening her features.

Her fingers brush my cheek. “You’re okay, Luke,” she murmurs. “I’ll take care of you.”