Page 129 of From Hell

But ultimately, It’s Jaxon’s journey to healing that I’m supporting him through. It’ll work as long as he keeps trying to heal and we keep talking, communicating, and dreaming of a future together.

I don’t say any of this to Nola, not even when she prompts me. “Laine, you still there?”

“I’m here. I don’t accept it, but I understand it.”

“Okay,” she says slowly. “As long as you’re safe.”

“I am. Jaxon won’t let anything hurt me.” And strangely, neither will the Ripper. “Stronger Together,” I say softly before I hang up.

I can almost see Nola make the cross with her fingers, so I make it, too, inside my faux fur-lined mitten. And then trudge back inside for my pampering evening with the boys.

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