Distant Obsession (27 page)

“Come here, love.” With gentle determination, Reece lifted Lilah from her seat, carried her to the rocker chair, settled her across his lap, and enveloped his wife with both arms. “It’s impossible to promise absolutes in our uncertain world, yet with every thought, ever nerve in my body, I’m certain, your sister will be returned to us.”

“But how do you know that, Reese, how?”

“I’m not being ethereal or unearthly, but I’m convinced He wouldn’t bring us out of our combined pit of loneliness only to toss us back into some other emotional abyss. We’re together for a reason Lilah, and I know in my heart Ashley will be part of what we are. It’s hard, I know, but please, trust me on this.”

“I do my love, I do.”

As if on cue, the phone in his pocket rang. “Yes. Hello, Sheriff. She is? When? Where? Fantastic. I appreciate that.” Reece terminated the call.

Her skin flushed in anticipation. “It’s Ashley, isn’t it?”

He kissed her forehead then each eyelid. “A young woman matching her description has been located in a small hospital thirty miles south.”

“Is she…is she alive?”

He gave a gentle nod. “She had a fall, was in a coma for seventy-two hours, but came out of it several days ago.”

“Then why didn’t she call? I don’t understand.”

“Short term loss of memory. Sheriff told me the doctor implied such conditions were common in this type of trauma, but in most cases, it’s only temporary.”

“Did he say how long?”

“No need. She was calling for you in her sleep last night. That’s how they identified it was Ashley.”

Her body trembled with both relief and trepidation seconds before tears flooded her cheeks.

“Shhhh. It’s all right, Lilah. Your sister is fine. I told you, He brought us together for a reason, and it wasn’t to share sorrow, only good things.”

Lilah whimpered and wept like a child, till he pulled her closer. For an eternity, they didn’t talk; simply rocked back and forth. With each stroke of her back, touch of her face; all the tension, the fear, the sadness melted away into the warmth of his chest. The moisture dried, the sniffling ceased, and her breathing settled, until Reece finally inquired, “Ready to visit your sister?”

Lilah lifted her gaze to the soothing affection displayed in his visage. The blue sparkle in both eyes captured her heart. “I love you, Reece.”

“I know angel, I know.” One last squeeze and a soft carcass from his lips. “Now let’s go get my new sister-in-law.”

The End

Other 5 star reviewed novels by Michael Davis (excerpts at Davisstories.com)

SHADOW OF GUILT -
“I couldn't put this book down and give it 5 stars.”
  Webb Weaver Reviews

BLIND CONSENT -
“A riveting thriller that will hold you captive start to finish!”
 
We Write Romance

VEIL OF DECEPTION
-
"Full of hidden twists and turns that keep you going OMG!”
Love Romance

WHISPERS OF INNOCENCE -
“The opening scenes suck you in and never let you go.”
Night Owl Romance

Other 5 star reviewed novels by Ciara Gold (excerpts at
www.ciaragold.com
)

CELESTIAL DRAGON – “
Celestial Dragon
is a compelling read that carries the reader into a magical world that this reader could envisage and feel.”
Fallen Angel Reviews

A NOBLE SACRIFICE – 2008 Eppie Winner; “
This book was a real pleasure to read
." Nightowl Reviews

ELIZA’S COPPER PENNY – “
This was a wonderful novel filled with twists and turns that offered excitement and romance.”
  Long and Short Reviews

THE KEEPER OF MOON HAVEN – “
A refreshing paranormal romance that reads like a perfectly blended historical, suspense, and fantasy fairy tale, KEEPER OF MOON HAVEN will easily appeal to lovers of all genres.” 
Romance Junkies