Chapter 7 Tyler watched the girl as she slept in the barn. He was still and silent among the shadows. This was no different than waiting for game in the forest. He’d done that all his life, still as a rock and watchful for hours. Sunlight streamed in through the doorway and between the wooden slats that made up the wall. It was a rare day full of sunshine and warmth. The light caressed the girl’s head, highlighting the fire in her hair. When she woke, her lashes fluttered before unveiling her deep green eyes. He watched as she went from cautious confusion to a dawning hope. Hope. How long had it been since he’d seen someone be hopeful? He could see that she was trying to remain cautious, but her happiness was palpable. Tyler frowned. This was unexpected. It had been a long time sinc

