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Stanley managed a grin, watching a policeman slap handcuffs on Johan’s wrists and lead him toward the nearest police car. The man was silent, glowering at the couple as he climbed into the backseat.

It looked like the entire police force had responded tonight. Half a dozen cars were parked haphazardly, lights flashing as policemen inspected the property and took notes. They’d already questioned everyone they could, including a few cowhands who’d witnessed the whole thing, about what happened, and scoured the property twice for evidence. Allison had to admit, she felt a little uncomfortable having so many of them around, but the sight of Johan getting cuffed made it all worthwhile.

“I’m just glad it’s over,” Stanley said.

She looked at him. He’d managed to change clothes and discard the shredded ones before either of them heard the sirens. In his sleeveless grey T-shirt and blue jeans, he hardly looked like he’d just been fighting for his life. Well, except for the bandage on his shoulder where Johan had clawed him.

Another scar from Frost Mountain, she thought.

“Thank you,” she blurted, “for saving me.”

She’d shocked herself when she’d elbowed Johan and broke free, but she’d had enough presence of mind not to just stand there and let him grab her again. So she’d hurried into the houseand called 911. By the time she put down the phone, all was quiet outside. It had taken all of her courage to step back outside. And what had she found? Stanley standing over Johan’s unconscious form.

She’d never really seen Stanley in action before. Seeing him like that, with that dark expression on his face, had been a little unnerving. The man was a force to be reckoned with, especially after his time on Frost Mountain. He hadn’t killed Johan, but Allison didn’t doubt he could have if he’d wanted to.

The cops soon started to leave. The police car with Johan in it roared to life and began pulling away from the house. Allison gazed in its direction and froze. Johan was staring right at her. His face was expressionless now, but it still sent shivers down her spine. Barely an hour ago, the man’s claws had been at her throat. More than once, she’d been mere seconds away from death.

Stanley put a protective arm around her shoulders.

“He can’t hurt you,” he said. “Not anymore. Not from behind bars.”

She looked at him.

“He’ll live,” he told her. “The wound I gave him won’t kill him, although I’m sure it’ll leave a doctor or two confused for a while. But I don’t think he’ll go free anytime soon. It’s been four years, but I’m pretty sure attempted murder is still a crime around these parts.”

Allison managed a small smile, feeling a little relieved. “You’re right.”

“It’s all over now. We’re safe. Still,” he continued, “I’m really sorry.”

“For what?”

“Everything.” He gesticulated vaguely with one arm and winced, lowering it quickly. “This is all happened because of me.You were hurt because I disappeared. And even when I returned, I brought a murderer with me and nearly got you killed.”

His head started to dip, but she reached up and cupped his chin, turning his head to face her.

“You didn’t even know you’d be coming back here,” she told him. “I heard what you and Johan were saying. I was there, remember? You had no idea that pit was some kind of portal. You had no idea you were ever going to see me again. And it wasn’t your fault you disappeared.”

“You have a point.” Stanley’s blue eyes bored into hers. “I still feel like I need to make up for it somehow.”

“You’re here, Stanley. That’s all that matters. That’s all that’s ever mattered.”

His lips twitched. He turned to face her. “I’m not going anywhere. Not without you. You couldn’t get rid of me if you tried.”

“I don’t see myself trying anytime soon.”

His grin widened. And then he kissed her. By the time he pulled away, she was practically gasping for air. He reached up and touched the pendant resting on her chest.

“I love you, Allison,” he whispered against her lips.

She beamed at him. “I love you, too, Stanley.” She cocked her head to one side. “You know, maybe thereisa way you could make it up to me.”

He lifted an eyebrow. “What’s that?”

“You could make me a cup of coffee ... right after some alone time together in the bedroom.”

Stanley chuckled. “Well, what are we waiting for?”