Chapter 44
Ready to collapse on the bed and hide from the world, Tessie opened the door and saw Madochée curled beneath the blankets. The image of her sleeping so perfectly untouched by the night’s events brought the smallest comfort. She fell back against the door and just watched. She didn't want to break the moment, to spoil it with the reality of everything outside those walls. Whatever she had achieved, this unexpected girl who had attached herself to the man she loved, was safe and sound. Tessie admired her mass of curls against the white pillow, and her cherub cheeks smug in their sleepiness. Laying beside her, she was the blessing she didn't know she needed. If not for her she might have fallen apart at that very moment.
She thought to change her dress and hide the evidence of bl
