Page 22 of Someone I Chose

Neha stared, frozen in place. She barely registered Shanae calling 911 or Jay and Nathan performing first aid. She did notice there was no driver in the rogue car, but it had been pushed by a truck with a couple of young lads in it, who looked terror stricken. The driver put the truck into reverse, but instead of just giving way, he sped off.

Once the ambulance arrived and the paramedics took care of Officer Leigh, Jay came over to where Neha and Shanae stood. Neha practically jumped into his arms and wrapped hers around him tightly. His firm flesh reassured her the tiniest bit.

“He’s going to be okay,” Jay said. “Some broken bones and bad bruising, but the car’s hatchback was too low to cause any organ damage.”

Jay squinted at Neha and tenderly cupped her face in his hand. “Hey Shanae, would you mind driving with Nathan? I think I’ll take care of my wife.”

Shanae cast her a glance and left.

Neha still was shaking. “That could’ve been you,” she exclaimed.

“Could have. But wasn’t,” Jay said. “I’m okay.” He wrapped her in a bear’s hug and held her tightly. “I will not leave you anytime soon.”

Neha still was breathing hard, crying tears that might have meant fear. Or relief that it in fact had not been Jay who got hurt.

Jay rubbed her back. “I promise there will be times you’ll wish I left.”

Neha snorted. Bubbly goo came out of her nose and dampened Jay’s shirt. “I’m sorry,” she said and tried to wipe it away.

“Don’t be sorry. Anything that you bring into my life is precious.” He looked at his shoulder. “I shall wear this blob of snot with pride.” Smiling at Neha, he added, “That’s how smitten I am with you. I love you, baby.”