Page 68 of Shadow Redemption
She scooted over to make room for him. Ben tugged her blanket higher, eased onto the bed, and wrapped his arm around Ruth’s shoulders. He tucked her against his side so her head rested on his chest. Within minutes, she was asleep.
Ben kissed the top of her head and relaxed against the pillow, his weapon within easy reach. He doubted anyone would make it past his teammates, but he never took anything for granted, especially when Ruth’s life was at stake. He’d screwed up today. That wouldn’t happen again. He’d kill anyone who tried to take her from him.
CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE
Ben woke when Ruth jerked in his arms and moaned. He tightened his hold. “You’re safe, baby. I’ve got you.”
“No,” she murmured, fighting to free herself. “Please, don’t.”
“Ruth, wake up.”
She jerked awake with a gasp, eyes wide and unfocused in the dim light of the room. “Ben?”
“I’m right here.” Ben kissed her forehead. “Bad dream?”
“Bad memory.”
Her anguish made him wish he’d taken out Torino when he’d had the chance. Ben had held himself back, not wanting Ruth to see him for the killer that he was.
“Need water?” When Ruth nodded, Ben opened one of the bottles of water Sam had given him.
After she drank her fill, he set the bottle aside and settled Ruth against his chest again. “We have a few hours before the doctor makes his rounds.”
“You should go back to the hotel and rest.”
“I’m not leaving you. This is the most sleep I’ve had in a long time.” Although Ruth looked skeptical, Ben had told her the truth. “I love holding you.”
He loved her. The words wanted to pour from his mouth. Ruth wasn’t ready. Soon, he hoped. He’d worked undercover ops and could lie if necessary. He didn’t like it, though, especially now. Withholding a truth this monumental from the woman he loved bothered him.
She snuggled closer. “If you’re exhausted tomorrow, I won’t be happy with you.”
Ben smiled. Yeah, he loved this amazing woman. “Yes, ma’am.”
The rest of the night passed with two more visits from nurses but no nightmares. Ruth stirred as the sun rose. She smiled at Ben. “Good morning.”
“Good morning, beautiful. You ready to tackle this day?”
Determination shone on her face. “If that includes tracking down the jerk who tried to kill me, I’m more than ready.”
“Sam brought a change of clothes for you if you want to freshen up before the doctor arrives.”
“That’s perfect. I wasn’t looking forward to walking out of the hospital in a swimsuit covered in a thin wrap.”
“Need an assist to the bathroom?”
Color flooded her cheeks. “I feel fine.”
Ben kissed her lightly and stood. “I’ll wait in the hallway. If you need anything, call out.” Another kiss and he walked out.
In the hall, he glanced at Sam. “She’s in the bathroom. Do you mind waiting inside the room in case Ruth needs help?”
“Of course not.” The medic slipped into the room and closed the door.
Ben turned to Joe. “Need a break?”
“I wouldn’t mind a cup of coffee. Want me to bring you a cup?”
“I’d appreciate it.”