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“You can do anything you want.”

She chuckled, then groaned.

He glanced over his shoulder.

Brandon stood at the opening, pen and tablet in hand, ready to listen to her account of the attack.

He’d have to thank his partner for the backup later. If his swirling thoughts of anger weren’t enough to tell him he’d misspertinent information, the pain in his heart would solidify the concept.

He gazed into Jennie’s eyes. “Whenever you’re ready.”

Jennie spent the next five minutes going over every detail she could remember. The fact she understood that they needed anything and everything she could think of didn’t get past David. Because of Kenny, the woman knew to remember details.

When she finished, he cupped her cheek with his palm. “You did good.”

Her eyelids drifted closed, then opened again. “Sorry. I’m fading on you.”

“Go right ahead and sleep.”

“Will you be here when I wake up?”

“That’s the plan. I need to talk with Dr. Bennett, but I’ll be back.”

“Promise?”

“Promise.” He sucked in a breath as he watched the woman he was falling in love with.

Her eyes closed and her breaths became even.

He squeezed her hand, not wanting to let go.

Brandon cleared his throat. “Let’s go interview the doc so you can get back in here.”

David slipped his hand from hers and followed his partner down the hall.

He stopped in front of Dr. Bennett. “I can’t thank you enough for saving Jennie’s life.”

“Honestly, detective, it was pure luck or divine intervention. Something. If I hadn’t decided to grab my wallet from my locker when I did, I truly believe she wouldn’t have made it.”

The truth hit David like a sledgehammer. Jennie had come far closer to losing her life than he’d imagined.

What if the attacker succeeded next time? And he had no doubt there’d be a next time.

Chapter 15

Thursday 11:00 a.m.

Jennie’s throat continued to burn as David assisted her into the truck he’d purchased earlier that morning. She inhaled the leather scent, wondering why new vehicles all smelled similar. Funny where her mind took her. Anything but dwelling on what had happened yesterday. Her breath caught. What if the man had succeeded in killing her? Zoey would be parentless. Yes, she’d have Aunt Emily, but as much as the little girl loved her great aunt, it wouldn’t be the same.

A hand rested on her arm. “You doing okay?” Concern laced David’s features.

She nodded.

“Are you sure you’re ready to go to Miss Emily’s?”

“I’d rather go home, but I don’t think anyone will let me,” she croaked. Great. She sounded like a frog.

“You have that right. The guys at the station plan to take turns patrolling your aunt’s place.”