A SMALL ETERNITY PASSED before I went from sucking in cold, damp earth to drinking in much needed air. Legs still weak, I pushed to my feet, swaying in my upright condition.
Beth tucked a sweat-streaked strand of hair behind my ear.
“You should take a few more minutes, Jem.”
I shook my head, bent to grab my vest.
“You’re not ready. The pain’s barely subsided. You’re not even steady.”
“Which is why I need to move now.” I tugged my top over my head, shoving my arms through. “I can’t leave Sean to go through that any longer. There’s no way anyone can survive that countless times and remain sane. No way.” I bent for my jeans, dragged them over my feet, and wiggled my hips to accommodate the snug denim.
Her hands snared my face again, holding me still. “Take a moment, Jem.”
Knowing she’d
