~SCARLETT.
"Arrggghh!" My eyes sprang open as I shot upright, my chest heaving. Uncontrollably, my hands trembled, sweat plastering my hair to my face.
"Scar." Warm hands covered mine, steadying me. "It's okay. You're safe."
Turning sharply, Jake's concerned face came into focus.
"How…" My voice faltered. Darting my eyes around the room, I took in the familiar surroundings bathed in soft morning light.
It was just a dream.
My breath hitched as the realization settled in. Tears spilled down my cheeks before I could stop them.
He pulled me into his arms, holding me tightly. "Shh," he murmured, rubbing my back. "I'm here. Whatever it was, it's over now."
I sobbed into his chest, the vividness of the nightmare refusing to let go. It felt so real—the blood, the man, the gunshot.
After
