Page 73 of Raven's Curse

“Saying the word doesn’t make it real. You’re gonna have to prove it.”

“Challenge accepted.”

“Now, about the meds…” She tsked when he frowned. “I know you’ve taken them before. So, what’s the catch?”

Foster cleared his throat. “Generally, one of us has to promise to tackle his ass to the floor if he so much as twitches while on them.”

Greer smiled. “I like the sound of that.” She trailed one finger along his shoulder and down his chest. “You. On the floor beneath me. Count me in.”

Chase coughed, grimaced. “That’s not exactly what he meant.”

“My interpretation.”

“Greer…”

She hitched out a hip. “Foster? How many times has one of you had to tackle his ass?”

Foster started counting on one hand before chuckling. “Not once.”

“That’s what I thought.”

Chase shifted on the gurney, eyes a bit wild. “And if this is the first time?”

Greer laughed. Damn, she loved him. “I’m an ex-federal agent and the sheriff. I can handle myself.” She shook her head when he simply stared at her. “Fine. I’ll bring my taser to bed. Now, take the meds, and let’s go. I might actually be able to sleep tonight.”

He snagged her hand as Foster mumbled something about getting him some clothes. “You know I’d never forgive myself if I ever hurt you, right?”

She leaned into him, drinking in the subtle hint of pine. Either from their trek through the forest or just his natural scent. “I know, which is why it’s my turn to hold you, tonight.”

The nurse reappeared, handed Chase a pill, then stood there, watching.

Chase mumbled something under his breath, then downed the tablet, staring at her when she didn’t move. “I’m not opening my mouth to prove I swallowed it.”

The nurse shook her head. “Good luck, Sheriff. He’s definitely the worst patient we’ve ever had.”

Greer arched a brow. “I see you’re making friends everywhere you go.”

He looked up at her and frowned.

She sighed. “It’ll be okay. Promise. Now, let’s get out of here before that kicks in, and Foster has to carry your ass.”

He snagged her arm. “I meant what I said. I love you, Greer. More than you’ll ever know.”

Warmth, burning away the chill that had settled in her bones. And all from those three words.

She moved into his arms, claiming his mouth in a dangerous kiss. “I love you, too. And once those stitches start falling out, I’ll show you exactly how much.”

Chapter Twenty

“Morning, beautiful.”

Greer blinked awake, staring into the darkness until her eyes adjusted, Chase’s handsome face slowly appearing out of the darkness. She glanced at the clock, groaning at the early number. “You realize we don’t have to be at work until seven, right?”

“Not waking you up to go to work, sweetheart.”

She tilted her head, arched a brow. “And your side?”

Chase grabbed her hand, ran her fingers across his ribs. “Stitches are already falling out.”