POV: Harper

“I’m sorry, Ethan I didn’t mean to upset you, I promise.” I told him

He stepped closer, hugging me tightly but cautiously as if holding me any tighter might crush me or the life growing inside of me. The warmth of his body was comforting, but it also reminded me of the danger lurking just outside our gates.

“Can you try and just stay put for a little while longer? For me, for the baby?”

I nodded against his chest, my emotions swirling. I didn’t want to be imprisoned in fear, yet here I was. Ethan’s protective instincts were fierce; I appreciated them, but they stung like a...