Page 58 of Cry Havoc (Tom Reece #1)

IT WAS ANOTHER DAY before Ella arrived.

Tom was still immobile.

She moved to the side of the bed and took his hand.

“Ella.” He didn’t know what else to say.

He watched as she took in the room, the IV, and the strap that still immobilized his head.

She was dressed in black, the green amulet still hung from her neck.

There was something else in her eyes. It wasn’t sadness. It wasn’t even concern or pity. He recognized it as determination. He knew what was coming.

“Tom, I am so sorry.”

“You are okay, and that is all that matters.”

She shook her head.

“That is not all that matters, Tom. My father is dead.”

“I know. I wasn’t fast enough to save him.”

She sighed.

“I am taking over the company. My father’s funeral is tomorrow.”

Tom closed his eyes.

“Tom, I can’t see you anymore.”

“Ella…”

“Don’t, Tom. It’s over. America is the reason my father is dead, and the reason my mother is dead. Regardless of my feelings, you are a cog in the machine, in a business that is Vietnam, Inc. I can’t do it anymore. I can’t separate you from the damage your country is doing here.”

“Ella…”

“Don’t come after me. It’s over.”

She leaned down, with one hand on his forehead and the other on his heart. She kissed him lightly on the lips and then whispered in his ear.

“I loved you.”

Tom kept his eyes closed and heard her feet cross the room. The click of the door handle was followed by a slight change in pressure as it opened and then the more distinct sound of it shutting behind her.

I loved you.