Page 112 of Last Chance Christmas

His chest heaved against her, and the warmth of his breath flooded her face.

Tremors worked their way down her body. Kianna focused on counting her own breaths. Letting Cole’s heartbeat in her ear steady her own racing pulse.

One, in. Two, out.

The smell of smoke and the distinct pine scent that clung to Cole’s coat flooded her senses.

She turned her head, nuzzling her cheek into the crook of Cole’s arm, and peered past his shoulder, where flames fizzled against the snow.

She squinted against the ball of fire engulfing the hood of the car and sending heat waves rippling through the air.

Unchecked tears streamed down her cheeks.

If she had still been in the car and Cole hadn’t rescued her…If they hadn’t stopped Mackey…If they…

Kianna’s breath hitched.

Cole eased back, bracing one arm next to her head. “Shhh. It’s okay.” His fingers brushed against her forehead and worked their way to the edge of her hair, pulling out a few leaves. “You’re safe.”

His only concern was her. The reality of his words shook her body once more. He’d taken the brunt of the force, for her. “And you?”

His brow knit together; creases etched the bridge of his nose. “Fine.” He leaned back on his heels and offered his hand.

Kianna gripped his sturdy hold and let him pull her up. She dusted snow off her pant leg, the cold, wet substance seeping into her hands, turning her exposed fingertips red.

Officers shouted into their radios. Some of them hefted snow on top of the car’s hood, working to douse the flames.

More sirens screamed as the fire truck pulled up. Within seconds, rushing water pumped from the fire hose.

“I need to find Titan.” Cole did a one-eighty. He hesitated for a second, almost like he was going to ask her permission. “I’ll be back.” Then he took off.

Of course he needed to check on his partner. Still, Kianna was very aware of her current position.

Everyone around her worked together, shouting orders.

Standing there by herself, Kianna felt exposed.

Unnoticed.

Her own thoughts worked to drown out the chaos encircling her.

She shook her head.

Cole said he’d be back. Did he truly mean it? Although, their kiss had to mean something. After all, he’d reciprocated her invitation. She sighed. She’d worry about that later.

For now, Kianna scanned the area, taking note of who she could go help.

Nathan stopped next to an officer who was clutching his arm.

Tires squealed against the slushy mixture on the road, then the police cruiser sped off—no doubt the one with Mackey and Victoria in it.

These people had come to their rescue, risking their own lives. Kianna had always been grateful for her team and the people she worked alongside. But today, the realization held more weight.

She followed Nathan back to the ambo, where a bag of first aid supplies was unzipped.

She grabbed a handful of wipes, then hurried over to Tazwell, who was wiping blood off her cheek. “Here.” Kianna handed her an alcohol prep pad and bandage. “Thank you. For helping with this case.” Kianna smiled.

“Doing my job as much as you are doing yours now.” Tazwell grinned.