Saving Ryder

Shaleigh

I woke up in the hospital, and I could have sworn Ryder is the one who brought me here, but I'm not sure. All I'm sure of is I have a broken nose, bruised ribs, and a concussion. When Ryder walked in, my heart stopped. How does he do that by just walking into a room? He's wearing a tight sweatshirt, jeans, and slides. His hair isn't perfect, but it's the right kind of messy.
"Hey," he says to me. Well hello there sexy.
"You shouldn't see me like this, Ryder." He shouldn't. I look like complete shit, and I'm all beaten up. I don't really remember what is said up until the point where he asks me to live with him. I say yes, but honestly I probably shouldn't. Julian is just going to come find me. He always does, and this time I don't think he'd spare my life.
"How'd you find me, Ryder?" I asked curiously.
"I had someone track you. You butt dialed my phone, and I couldn't help but listen, and I heard him slap you. I had to come to you. I honestly was scared." Why does he care? I just met this guy, and he's already protecting me. Right then, there's a knock on the door, and the doctor enters.
"Mrs. Adams, we are keeping you over night to monitor you. It's just for precautions. Your husband can stay too if he likes." With that he leaves. Wait, did he just say husband?
"So, you're my husband now?" I ask not able to contain my laughter.
"It was the only way they'd let me know what was wrong with you." There's a grin dancing across his face when he says that, and damn is it the sexiest thing ever.
"I don't expect you to stay with me tonight. You can leave whenever you're ready." Part of me is wishing he'll object and stay with me.
"What if I don't want to leave?" The little girl inside of me is jumping up and down at his question.
"Then stay. I'm sure I'll enjoy the company." Did I really just say that? I sound desperate.
Within an hour investigators arrive to question me on what happened. I was scared to tell them, but Ryder was there for me the whole time. You would think he would see me differently than he did, but he's looking at me like I can do anything. Finally after an hour of questioning they leave. Miles now has a warrant for his arrest for "Assault and Battery." He's still out there though, so I am still in danger until he's taken into custody.
"You did so good Shaleigh," he encouraged.
"Thank you, but all I want to do is sleep. I want to forget this ever happened." I say kind of upset.
"Scoot over." He demanded.
"Wait, why?" I ask.
"You really think I'm sleeping on this recliner? Scoot over, and you can lay on my chest." I think I just stopped breathing. I can't remember how to breathe. I scoot over though doing as he asked. He pulls me into his arms, and I feel safer than I've ever felt.
"Sweet dreams."
"Goodnight, Ryder."