Page 41 of Edge of Desperation
“He’s the one who raised and trained Lykos,” I explain. “Call him anytime if you have any questions.”
A smile tugs at her lips. “Thanks, Jaxson.”
“Don’t thank me yet,” I warn. “You might be cursing me to Hell by the time I’m done with you.”
The general roars with laughter. “You giving her the ol’ Marine welcome, huh?”
“Yes, Sir.”
“Bring it,” she challenges.
“Don’t worry, I will.” I wink. “I’ll text you when I have all the details ironed out.”
The general steps around his desk. “I’m going to walk Jaxson out.”
Excitement courses through my body knowing I get to spend an undetermined amount of time getting to know Aurora.
Too bad you also got to share her with the rest of your team. Fuck!
CHAPTER 14
AURORA
“You seemto be in better spirits today.” Jessa smiles.
It’s our weekly FaceTime therapy session. I promised my dad I would continue working with Dr. Stark since she was already familiar with my case. I didn’t want to find a new psychiatrist who could also do therapy or have to meet with two different people. Besides, I really enjoy Jessa’s demeanor.
“Jaxson brought me a surprise, and for the first time in weeks, I slept without nightmares,” I announce.
“What did he br—” Lykos’ head enters the screen, causing Jessa to gasp. “What the hell is that thing?”
“Wolamute.”
“Is he a wolf?” she whispers.
“He’s half wolf, half Malamute.” I scratch his head. “Down, Lykos.” He lays back down at my feet. “He’s a licensed therapy dog for people with PTSD and a trained guard dog.”
Jessa whistles. “Impressive. So, Jaxson is back?”
“Yep.”
“How do you feel about that?”
How do Ifeelabout that? I hadn’t really thought about it either way. Don’t kid yourself, you want to see him again. Only to thank him… That’s it.
“I mean, I finally got to tell him thanks for rescuing me.” I fidget with my shirt.
This conversation is going down a road I’m not ready to travel. I’m finally starting to feel good, and I don’t want to rip open wounds again. Jessa must sense my withdrawal because she switches gears.
“Do you have any special plans while you stay with your dad?”
I grin. “Actually, I asked Jaxson to teach me self-defense.”
“I think that’s a fantastic idea!”
“My dad taught me the basics growing up,” I say, opening up for the first time. “W-w-when I was with them, I froze. I couldn’t fight back.” I blink back tears, refusing to let them fall.
Jessa straightens in her chair. “Even if you had fought back, no means no, and you were taken against your will.”
