When I finally look up at him, the cold fury in his eyes should frighten me. Instead, I find it oddly comforting. Like watching a thunderstorm rage from the safety of a sturdy shelter.
"He'll never touch you again," Tank says, each word carved from ice. "I promise you that, Amelia. On my life."
The intensity of his vow sends a shiver down my spine. For the first time, I truly believe that Derek might not have the power to hurt us anymore. That there might be a future where Anna and I are safe.
"I'm tired," I whisper, the emotional toll of the day finally crashing down on me. "So tired of being afraid. Of running. Of looking over my shoulder."
"Then stop," Tank says simply. "Let me carry that burden for a while."
The offer nearly breaks me. How long has it been since anyone shouldered any of my burdens? Since I had someone to lean on, even for a moment?
Without conscious thought, I step forward and wrap my arms around his waist, pressing my face against his chest. He stiffensmomentarily in surprise, then his arms come around me, engulfing me in warmth and the scent of leather.
It's not sexual or romantic, or at least, I don't think it is. It's human connection in its purest form, the first real embrace I've allowed myself since leaving Derek. His arms tighten slightly, and I realize how long it's been since I felt truly safe in a man's hold.
"Thank you," I murmur against his chest, tears flowing freely now. "For everything."
His hand comes up to cradle the back of my head, surprisingly gentle for a man his size.
"Don't thank me yet," he rumbles, his voice vibrating through his chest against my cheek. "Thank me when it's over. When you and Anna are truly free."
The promise in those words, the absolute certainty with which he delivers them, makes me believe for the first time that there might actually be an "after" for us. A life beyond running and fear.
I don't know how long we stand there, my face pressed against his chest, his arms creating a sanctuary around me. It could be minutes or mere seconds. All I know is that when Beast clears his throat from the doorway, I jump back as if burned, heat flooding my cheeks.
"Sorry to interrupt," Beast says, though his knowing smirk suggests he's not sorry at all. "You two should get some rest. Tomorrow's going to be a long day."
Tank nods, dropping his arms reluctantly. "I'll relieve you in four hours."
As Beast moves to his position by the window, Tank turns back to me. "You should sleep. Your daughter needs you at full strength tomorrow."
"I know." I wipe the last tears from my face, embarrassed by my emotional display but somehow lighter for having shared the burden. "I'm not sure I can, though. Not knowing Derek might be out there somewhere, getting closer."
"He's not getting past us," Tank says with quiet certainty. "And even if by some miracle he did, he'd have to go through me to get to you or Anna. That's not happening."
The simple conviction in his voice soothes my frayed nerves better than any elaborate security system could. I nod, too exhausted to argue further.
"Goodnight, Tank. And thank you. For the story, for listening. For everything."
"Goodnight, Amelia."
As I turn to head back to the bedroom where Anna sleeps, Tank's voice stops me.
"Amelia?"
I glance back at him. "Yes?"
"You did the right thing. Getting out. Protecting your daughter. Don't ever doubt that."
His words wrap around me like a blanket, warming places inside me that have been cold for too long. I manage a small, grateful smile before slipping away.
In the bedroom, Anna sleeps peacefully, Hoppy clutched to her chest. I change quietly into the old t-shirt I've been using as pajamas, then slide into bed beside her. She stirs slightly,instinctively curling against me, seeking warmth and security even in sleep.
"Mommy?" she murmurs drowsily.
"I'm here, baby," I whisper, stroking her hair. "Go back to sleep."
"Is the big man still here? Is he keeping the monsters away?"
