Where the Wild Red Roses Grow [Evan Buckley]

Chapter Eight: Recovery

Emma groaned, not opening her eyes. She felt a warmth around her body.

"Sh." Someone whispered in her hair, brushing soft kisses along her scalp. "You're OK."

She slowly opened her brown eyes. Buck had his arms tightly around her body, holding her close to his chest.

"Buck." She choked.

"You're safe, I'm here." He said, kissing her head again.

The memories began to flood her mind. Emma had not realized how long she was blocking out the memory of that night. She had not realized how far removed from it she was. Going through it again was so much for her body and mind.

"You passed out." Buck said.

"How long have I been out?"

"It's 10am, Thursday."

Emma nodded. "My brain shut off to protect me, I think. It's amazing what our bodies will do when it senses distress."

"How are you feeling now?" Buck whispered.

Emma wasn't sure. She was glad to have admitted it out loud. She was glad they had DNA. However, she mourned for all the women who have lost their life at the hands of this monster.

Emma was honest about her thoughts to Buck.

She felt him shift under her, bringing his hands to rub her arms.

"That does sound complicated." He spoke.

"Where did Lynch go?"

"His hotel, he is leaving today to go back to Kentucky. He said he would be in touch."

"I understand if you want to run." Emma said.

Buck chuckled. "Run from what?"

"Me."

"Why would I do that?"

"I'm damaged, Buck. I have a lot of baggage."

Buck shifted again, easing into the chair beside her. Emma sighed at the loss of contact from Bucks' warmth.

"Emma." He spoke, meeting her gaze. "You're not damaged. You've been through a lot. You came out on the other side. If anything, that makes you strong."

Emma smiled gently. "Thank you for staying with me, Buck."

Buck nodded. "Your doctor came in earlier and said they would discharge you today if you felt up for it."

Emma nodded in response. "I'm ready to go home. I'm not a very good patient."

Buck chuckled. "Emma, I'm not sure what these last few days have meant to you. But, I would like to keep seeing you outside the hospital. I would like to take you on a date."

Emma gently closed her eyes.

"Buck, I like you." She stated.

"I sense a but." Buck said.

Emma looked to him again. His blue eyes pooled with hope.

"But, I don't think it's a good idea. Your best friend is my patient."

"I'm not your patient." Buck protested. "It won't be an issue."

Emma bit her lip. "I have a lot of baggage."

"I think you're making excuses now." Buck chuckled.

The sound of his laughter made Emma smile.