Chapter 93: Finding Peace

Michael’s eyes were fixed on the flickering screen, but his mind wasn’t following the plot of the movie. His thoughts were with the woman nestled in his arms. Rachel had been through so much—too much. The kidnapping had shaken her, though she tried to hide it behind her tough exterior. He knew her well enough to see the cracks, the moments when her gaze would grow distant, and her smile would falter just a little too long. The night was quiet, save for the soft sound of the television and the rustle of the popcorn they were sharing. Michael had spent more nights here than he could count, wanting to be near Rachel, to make sure she felt safe. Sometimes he stayed over, other times he would leave after she fell asleep, but tonight he had no intention of going anywhere. He could sense that she needed him close. Rachel’s head rested against his chest, and he could feel the steady rise and fall of her breathing. She hadn’t said much since the movie started, and he could tell something was