My stomach pitched, all its contents revolting at the image painted in my mind. “Excuse me.” I ran for the bathroom across the hall, just making it in time to empty my stomach into the toilet. I wretched and heaved until nothing more would come up. My legs wobbled as I exited the stall and made my way to the sink. I rinsed out my mouth and splashed water on my face, patting it dry.

I studied the reflection staring back at me. Far too pale, with dark circles rimming my eyes, and a feral, panicked quality to my gaze. I needed to see Ford for myself. I needed to touch him. To make sure he was safe and real and not going anywhere.

The door slowly opened, and a nurse appeared with a gentle smile. She had a grandmotherly air to her and extended a travel-sized bottle of mouthwash. “Your friend thought you might want this.”

“Thank you.” My hand shook as I took it from her.

“You just let me know if you need some juice or crackers, and I’ll rustle some up for you.”

I nodded, and she left. I quickly rinsed out my mouth, relishing the relief the minty mouthwash brought, and headed back into the waiting room. “Can I see him now?”

The doctor’s expression gentled. “Of course you can. I’ll have the nurse bring in some discharge papers and instructions for home care. Mr. Hardy needs to take it easy for a few weeks.”

I nodded and headed straight for the ER bay the doctor pointed to. My hand froze for a moment as I gripped the curtain, my heart seeming to trip over itself. I wasn’t sure what I’d do if Ford sent me away. I took a deep, steadying breath and pulled the rough fabric aside.

Ford’s eyes snapped to me. “Trouble.”

I did the last thing I wanted to. I burst out crying. It was as if all the emotions I’d been holding back for the past twelve hours spilled out of me all at once.

“Trouble,” he growled. “Get over here. I’m fine. I promise.”

I hurried over to the bed, trying to get myself under control—and failing miserably. “I’m so sorry.” I hiccupped between words.

His arm that wasn’t in a sling reached out for my hand. I took it greedily. “You have nothing to be sorry for.”

I couldn’t seem to stop my tears. Ford released my hand and cupped my face. “What is all this about?”

“I-I-I almost lost you, and the last thing I said was that I didn’t trust you.” The sobs started back up in earnest.

“Bell.” His face softened. “I shouldn’t have walked out. I haven’t earned your trust back, it’s okay. I will one day.”