Page 103 of Falling for the Grumpiest Protector

"I have candles," he says softly. "Would you like to help me light them?"

I nod against his chest. "Yes."

"Okay."

He keeps one hand around mine while we find the drawer. A few minutes later, candlelight fills the cottage. Soft pools of gold flicker across the kitchen and living room. The storm is still outside. It doesn't feel quite so close anymore.

By eleven, the road is still flooded. Mom texts to tell me Noah is asleep in Lily's old room and they're both fine.

Javier takes a pillow and blanket from the cupboard and sets them on the couch.

"You take the bedroom," he says.

"I can sleep on the couch."

"So can I."

"It's your house."

"And you're my guest."

"Javier."

"Maddy."

I study him. He isn't moving on this.

"Fine."

"Good."

"Bossy."

His smile is slow. "Goodnight, Hart."

"Goodnight, Martinez."

I pause at the bedroom door. "Thank you. For earlier."

His expression softens. "You don't have to thank me."

"I know."

I step into the bedroom. "Goodnight, Javier."

“Goodnight, Maddy.”

I close the door and climb into bed. Beyond the doorway, Javier moves quietly through the cottage, putting out the candles. Rain murmurs against the window as I drift off.

A soft bark wakes me. I open my eyes to darkness. For a second, I don’t know where I am. Then I hear scratching at the bedroom door.

“Atlas?”

Another soft bark. I get out of bed and open the door. Atlas turns immediately toward the living room. Something is wrong. I follow.

Pale moonlight comes through the windows. Javier is on the couch. His body is rigid beneath the blanket. His breathing is harsh and fast.

"Javier?"