The first light of dawn painted the sky in soft shades of lavender and rose, casting long, golden shadows across the motel courtyard. The world was still, hushed, as if holding its breath. But Nathan hadn’t slept—not even for a second.
He sat in the hard wooden chair by the window, one arm draped over the backrest, his other hand resting on his thigh. His eyes were fixed outside, scanning the quiet streets below and the subtle movements of the wind brushing the trees. But truthfully, only half his mind was on the window.
The other half was on her.
Rory was asleep in one of the motel beds behind him, tucked into the too-big floral comforter. Her body was curled toward the wall, one bare leg peeking out from the blanket. She looked peaceful—serene in a way that twisted something inside hi
