"Jessamyn…"
Jerrick gently caressed her cheek, his face etched with worry and relief. His eyes were red-rimmed, his expression a mix of fear and hope.
"Jessamyn," he said again, his voice breaking. "Thank goodness, you're awake."
She tried to speak, but her throat felt dry and constricted. Instead, she gave a small nod, her eyes meeting his. The intensity of his gaze made her heart ache; she could see the torment he had endured.
"You're safe now," he whispered, his hand smoothing back her hair. "I won't let anything happen to you."
She tried to smile, but the effort was too great. She settled for squeezing his hand, hoping it conveyed her relief. Everything was murky, but she was alive by some means. She knew it was Jerrick who saved her somehow.
Jerrick carefully helped her sit up, wrapping the fur coat more securely around her. He offered her warm water and her throat felt better.
