Chapter 16

• I couldn't shake this overwhelming need to rush back to her side. The thought of her waking up alone made my insides twist with worry. I did a quick sweep around our little hideaway cave, making sure the area was secure and nothing could possibly disturb or startle her if she happened to regain consciousness before I returned.
• Once I was sure it was safe, I hurried back inside. Gently, I scooped her up into my arms, cradling her delicate body, and laid her down on the cool, hard cave floor. I hated having to put her directly on the ground like that, so I went back outside to gather up some soft vegetation to make her a cozy little bed.
• I grabbed armfuls of leaves, moss, and ferns from the trees surrounding our sanctuary and brought them inside. I carefully arranged them into a plush nest right there on the cave floor. With the utmost tenderness, I transferred her from the hard ground onto the velvety bed I'd made.