Chapter 91: Was It a Coincidence?
As Ruediger carried Lariette through the rain-soaked forest, the weather began clearing up. The forest floor was muddy from the rain yet, the man strode on it with ease.
Lariette quietly stared at the back of Ruediger’s head. She still felt the lingering fear from the ordeal, also the pain from her feet and hands yet, she also felt oddly safe right now.
The man’s firm stride and steady breaths soothed her tensed nerves, keeping her grounded in the moment.
"Lettie, relax. No need to be stiff," Ruediger suddenly spoke without glancing at Lariette behind, his voice calm and reassuring, "Lean your head on my shoulder if you want."
Lariette blinked, heat flushing on her cheeks. She simply let out a low hum before doing so.
A faint smile curled on Ruediger’s lips as he felt Lariette resting her head on his right shoulder. Sensing her vulnerability, a pang of protectiveness surged within him.
Also...
Ruediger was acutely aware of Lariette’s warmth against his back. As far as he remembered, this was the closest physically they had been.
None of them spoke anymore until they reached the cabin.
"Where are they?" asked Lariette, recalling Ruediger saying he subdued the two men. Her eyes scanned the area around the cabin.
"I tied them at the back," said Ruediger, his voice strained with irritation, directed at the two intruders, "Don’t worry about them. Let’s get you warm first."