Here is Chapter 4. A few notes: A scene from one of my favorite Victor films, "Me and My Shadows: My Life with Judy Garland" is referenced in this chapter, along with a reference to a look of Victor's that always makes me think of "Titanic". Also, keep in mind that things are about to get rough for this couple in the upcoming chapters. There's more fallout from Brooke's actions in Manassas, in more ways than one. Keep reviewing.
Chapter 4: I'll Always Come Back To You
I heard voices outside my room and then I heard the door open. I slowly sat up to get a better look. It was Jack. He looked like hell. His hair was a mess and his suit was wrinkled. His dress shirt was un tucked and his tie was loosened. He looked like he hadn't slept in two days. Neither of us said anything for a few seconds, we just stared at each other. His face changed and that spot on his forehead between his eyes got scrunched up the way it always did when he was upset.
He walked over and sat in the chair next to me and very softly took my left hand, put it to his lips and then held it there for a while, stroking it gently. I took my right hand and reached over to touch his face. I did my best to hold it together but seeing him like this was heartbreaking. It was even worse knowing that it was because of me.
He took a deep breath and with my hand still to his lips, he said "I was so scared, Brooke" his voice cracked.
"I know, and I'm sorry" I felt the tears spring to my eyes, "Are you mad at me?"
He looked right at me, "No sweetheart, of course not. I'm just glad you're okay. The doctor says you're going to be fine. Your parents are on their way down here, too."
I turned my head to look at him, "And the manuscript? Was it destroyed?"
Jack shook his head, "No, it wasn't. We have it. It's encrypted so it might be awhile before we know anything."
Thank God. I had risked my life, my job and, I feared, my relationship with Jack over that thing. If it had been destroyed, it would have all been for nothing. I could deal with losing my job, but losing Jack? I couldn't bear it.
Lost in my thoughts, Jack spoke, "You were out for quite a while. Do you remember anything?"
A smile formed on my face, "I remember the dream I had. It was about us."
"Oh..really"? Jack arched his eyebrows and moved his chair closer to the bed. "Do tell"
I recalled the whole dream. His mood lightened listening to the story. We both laughed, and it was then I felt as if things were really going to be alright.
He leaned forward and looked deep into my eyes, "You came back to me" he stated after I was finished, with a smile.
"I'll always come back to you."