15

They were both safe. He hadn’t let himself think about what would happen if they hadn’t been able to get out. But now they had.

And he had things to do.

“Let’s get you to the hospital and get you checked out.”

“I’m fine. A shower wouldn’t hurt, though.”

She was as filthy as he was. “After the hospital, Autumn Jane. No arguing. And then…then we will talk.”

Her brother was there. “You ok? There’s blood on the back of your neck.”

He tried to take a closer look, but Sean waved him away.

“Took a knock to the head. But should be good. I’m taking your sister to the hospital now.” He would find a place to clean himself up, and then he’d do his job. And then, when this night was over, he and Autumn Jane would talk.

He looked back at her. “If you argue with me, I’m just going to carry you off to the nearest hospital. Probably County. I’m sure to find either of your parents there. Probably both.”

“No doubt.” A small hand came toward his face. A finger brushed his lip. “I’ll go. But I want you to get your head checked out, too.”

“Deal.” Sean said to hell with everyone around them. He pulled her closer and hugged her one more time.

He just needed to feel her close one more time.