Page 13 of Hiding Secrets (Hidden Desires Trilogy #2)

Hunter

I jump from my bed, startled. The sound of Elliott screaming echoes throughout the house, and I can't get my feet to run fast enough. She didn't come out of the room after our talk and I was afraid that her talking about Everton had her swirling back into her abyss.

I sprint down the hallway and see Marcus in her doorway already. How in the fuck did he get here before me? His room is clear on the other side of this house.

"What's happening?"

"I don't know, she’s just lying there screaming. I think she is still asleep."

"And you’re just standing there watching it?!"

"What do you want me—"

"Move."

I stalk into the room, taking hesitant steps to where she lies.

I stand there looking down, her eyes are closed but the torment behind them is evident.

Tears glisten on her cheeks in the moonlight.

I don't think it all through as I crawl into bed and pull her into my arms to rock her.

Her screams fade away but her sobs continue.

I push her messy hair out of her face, she looks so fragile in my arms, broken like this.

It hits a part of my heart I didn't know was there, as I stare at her. I wipe away a tear and her eyes snap open, landing on me with panic. Her eyes look glazed over like she’s still trapped in her nightmares, her hands pushing against my bare chest. I hadn't put a shirt on in my rush to get to her, and her skin touching mine has my body shivering in response.

"You're awake, you're awake. You were screaming in your sleep." I try to ease her, pulling my hands away.

The glossy film over her eyes starts to dissipate as she stares at me, but the tears only stream down her face faster now. Her hands stop pushing me away and her body softens. I take the chance to pull her back in and to my surprise she allows me to.

"It's okay. It's me. You're safe."

Her whole body is trembling as she melts into me and I try not to enjoy the feeling of her in my arms as much as I do because of how broken she is right now.

But I can't help this tug my heart has for her.

I look over towards the doorway and see Marcus's silhouette.

I shift in the bed to sit up a little, about to say his name, but then Elliott's arm wraps around my torso as if she’s afraid of me leaving.

I sink back into the bed, wanting to comfort her but when I look back, Marcus is gone.