Emilia’s heart raced as she hurried toward the black SUV waiting at the far end of the alley. Her legs trembled, Daniel heavy in her arms, but she didn’t stop. Every step echoed with fear and hope.
Please let it be him. Please, God, let it be Alexander.
The SUV’s door flew open. A man stepped out, tall and broad shouldered, his face hidden under the low light. For one breathless second, she froze, torn between running and falling apart.
Then he called out.
“Emilia.”
Her knees almost gave way. That was his voice deep and roughened by smoke. She would know it anywhere.
“Alexander,” she whispered.
He rushed to them and his arms went around her, strong and warm, pulling her and Daniel close. She could feel his heartbeat hammering as fast as hers. For a moment, the world disappeared—no d
