53. Chapter Fifty-Three
Chapter Fifty-Three
Mialina
Asudden crash jolts me awake.
For a few disorienting seconds, I have no idea where I am.
Darkness surrounds me before the warm glow of the fire slowly comes into focus. Wind whistles outside, followed by a deep groan from somewhere in the building.
The storm.
Chicago.
Maximo’s penthouse.
My heart is already racing by the time another gust rattles the building. I lift my head just enough to glance toward the wall of windows.
The storm hasn’t eased up. Snow lashes against the glass, occasionally illuminated by the city lights far below.
I become aware of strong arms wrapped around me. And just like that, the panic begins to fade.
The last thing I remember is resting my cheek on Maximo’s chest and letting his steady heartbeat lull me to sleep.
At some point during the night, I must have rolled onto my side with my back pressed to his chest. One of his arms is tucked beneath my head and the other draped around my waist. It tightens ever so slightly, though I can’t tell whether it’s because I moved or simply instinct.
I don’t think he’s awake. His steady breath brushes softly against my hair.
I sink back into the warmth of Maximo’s embrace. Despite the mayhem outside, I’ve never felt safer.
More debris hits the glass and I don’t even flinch. I curl my fingers around his forearm where it rests across my waist and hug it closer to my chest.
The wind can howl all it likes. For tonight, wrapped securely in Maximo’s arms, it can’t reach me.