Rescued by the Captain (Winter Rescue)

13. Donte

13

DONTE

The last thread of my stitches is secured into place. I hold my arm still on the gurney as directed. Waking up in the hospital after collapsing from blood loss in the woods, I’ve been slowly coming to. I blinked in and out of consciousness as they started treating me. I’m still a little weak, but the news that I’m about to receive will surge me to full energy.

Colt enters the room. He’s got his hands shoved in his pockets, and for the first time ever, the shadow of a smile on his face.

“I’m glad you’re up, Rogers,” he says and I return his smile. Hopefully it’s time to smile.

My thoughts instantly jump to Bria. “How’s Bria? Is she okay?”

“Oh, she’s in the waiting room right now. She was going to see you when you woke up —”

I’ve heard all I need to hear. Attempting to rip the IVs from my arms, I struggle against the nurses as I say, “I have to see her, now.”

They eventually give me space to go as I please and I don’t waste a second bolting out the door, down the hall until I spot the glass reception. Opposite of it, I see Bria in one of the waiting chairs. She stands up when she meets my gaze.

“Bria!” I call out her name. One step, two steps, three close the gap between us. I pull her into a tight embrace, hugging her like I’m about to lose her.

“I love you,” I say.

She replies, “I love you too.”

The sight and the feel of her is overwhelming. I’m relieved that she is okay. As I part from our hug to stare into her rich, hazel eyes, I realize that I don’t have to save anyone, and it’s okay to be the one that is saved.

It’s time to start living again.