Half stretched out on his broad chest, I muster the strength to protest. Three more birthdays remain. Technically four, but he's true that we should skip through twenty-two. That was a night I'd rather not think about. Never before had I been so appreciative of David's interference as I was that night.

A huge hand runs down the middle of my back, and he rubs it smooth. I can't help it, Anna; I'm just a human being. You've completely exhausted me, man.

I look up, feeling the beginnings of terror in the back of my throat. But if we do go to sleep, by dawn we will be done with...