Chapter 174

Nathan's POV

Harper’s weight is soft against me, her arms still wrapped around my neck even in sleep. She’s completely out, head tucked against my shoulder, breath finally steady. But I keep stroking her back, slow and gentle, just like I was when she was awake. My fingers trace the curve of her spine through Theo’s shirt, and I whisper to her even though she can’t hear me now.

“You did good, baby girl,” I murmur quietly, my lips brushing her temple. “You stayed strong. You kept him here.”

Her face is tearstained, but peaceful now. There’s something almost childlike in the way she’s curled into me. I pull her in closer, adjusting my grip without waking her, and rest my chin lightly against the top of her head.

Across from us, Mason sinks down into the chair beside me, rubbing a hand over his face. He looks just as