Emerald was not sure how she slept that night but by the time she opened her eyes the next day, Matthew’s strong arm was wrapped tight around her midsection, gluing her back to him in the process.

She froze; the complicated situation of the last night made a waltz through her brain. She was shocked to fear, confused and terrified.

The moment she woke up, Matthew knew, but he did not want to let go. He watched her freeze, panic, then struggled, before stopping.

“Mr. Reeves, Mr. Reeves,” she called, growing frustrated every second he did not seem to wake, “Matthew!” she called.

“Was it so hard to call my...