Page 6 of A Constant Reminder

The detectives thanked us both and told us the evidence collection at the house would be done by the time we arrived home and everything would be put back to normal. They assured us they’d check in with us in a few days, and with a quick wave, they were gone.

I was grateful to finally have some alone time with my boyfriend, but moments later, Dr. Wilshire came walking in again.

Overall, my prognosis was good. She explained my concussion shouldn’t have any lasting damage and that most of my other wounds were just bruises that should go away in a couple weeks.

My arm though needed a hard cast put on, and I’d have to wear it the next few weeks. Thankfully, it was my left arm, so I would still be able to use my dominant hand without issue.

After ordering a nurse to do a quick check of my vitals, the doctor exited once more.

Tyler laid his head in my lap as I ran my fingers through his dark hair. “I love you. You know that, right?” I said.

His head snapped up. “Of course, I know that. I know you love me. Why would you even ask?”

“And you still love me, right?” My bottom lip began to tremble.

“Sam, what the fuck? You’re starting to scare me. Yes, I love you more than anything.”

The river of tears I’d been holding back finally broke through the dam.

“I know this whole thing isn’t what you signed up for. Finally, I’d put myself back together again. You put me back together again, and now, I’m broken…just like I was four years ago.”

Gently, he took a seat on the bed next to me, wrapping me in his arms.

“You listen to me. You’re not broken. You’re the strongest woman I’ve ever met, and we are going to get through this together. You’re not alone this time.

“And this time, we’re going to nail the son of a bitch. We aren’t in some small town in Kansas anymore. He’ll pay for what he’s done.”

I knew his words were meant to comfort me, and I’m sure he believed them. But I knew James, and he wouldn’t go down without a fight.