“Few people can. Nathan is the ultimate unsung hero who will never, ever, be publicly acknowledged for his sacrifice to his country. He is the finest, most honorable man I’ve ever known. I’d give my life for him, and he’d do the same for me. And you.”

Holly thought back to the first time he’d spent the night at her house. Nathan had insisted on sleeping on the floor. That was odd enough. Then came his horrible dream. The way he’d jumped off the floor when she’d yelled his name. The expression of rage in his eyes and the paralyzing sense of danger she’d felt. Almost as though he’d been someone else for a few seconds.

Something else.…

Chapter 5

Chapter 5

Nathan walked back to Holly’s sedan. The longer he stayed out here, the more it would worry her. To avoid startling them, he approached from the front of the vehicle, then came around to the passenger’s side and climbed into the backseat.

“I trust my absence hasn’t spooked either of you irreparably?”

Holly turned in the front seat to face him, concern in her eyes. “You okay?”

“I needed to clear my head. Sorry.”

“You’ve got nothing to apologize for. What you went through.…”

“It’s okay.”

“No, it’s not okay.”

He forced a smile. “Can’t say I like it much. We’re pressed for time, but let’s grab a bite. Anyone hungry?”

“There’s an all-night coffee shop about a mile from here,” Holly said.

Harv climbed out. “I’m gonna lock her up and grab our bags. Be right back.”

Nathan stayed in the backseat and an uneasy silence ensued. He knew she didn’t want to break it, so he spoke first. “You look great, Holly.”

“I don’t feel great. I’ve gained ten pounds since the bombing. It’s this damned cane. I can’t exercise like I used to.”

“You look fine.”

“I’ve really missed you.”

“Me too.”

“Will you stay with me tonight? Harvey too. I mean—”

“I know what you mean. No problem.”

“You going to sleep on the floor?”

“I like sleeping on the floor.”

“You’re the most unusual man I’ve ever met.”

“You don’t get out much.”

“Is Harvey a light sleeper?”

“I’m afraid so. The man can sleep with his eyes open. It’s the damnedest thing you ever saw.”

“I’d like to sleep next to you tonight, even if it’s on the floor.”

“You can’t.”

“I’m willing to risk it.”

He took her hand. “But I’m not.”

“Think I’ll ever be able to?”

“Probably not. I’ll never lead a normal life, Holly. Montez stole that from me. All I can do is be the best person I can to you.”

“You’re one of the kindest men I’ve ever known.”

He nodded toward the helicopter.

“Is he coming?”