Chapter One
 Ruby thrashed in her sleep, her breathing growing heavy, sweat dotting her skin. A whimper escaped her lips as the nightmare filled her head. She could hear his voice, feel his hands on her, around her throat, him kicking and hitting her. She woke screaming, sitting bolt upright as her wail of fear filled the room. Then warmth enveloped her, arms pulling her close. “Ruby.” His voice was soft, gentle and she started crying into his chest. “It’s okay Ruby.”
“N…Noxx.” It was the only thing she could say through her tears and he hated how broken and ashamed she sounded.
“Don’t worry, I’m right here.”
He sat there holding her until she was able to get her crying under control and it was only then she realized it was raining outside and her bedroom window was open. She pulled back enough to reach over and switch on the lamp then turned her attention back to him. His hair hung around his face in wet tendrils and drops of water still dotted his skin. “Noxx, you’re soaked. How long were you out there?” read more