Chapter 114

Rose stood overlooking the fields and the forest below the window, the back of the cottage shining in the early light. She no longer cringed at seeing the tiny building nestled among the trees and foliage. The feelings of anxiety and panic had subsided finally, and of late, the nightmares had faded away into peaceful slumber again most nights.

That night had affected her more than she could ever have guessed, and in the following weeks, in a torrent of anxiety and emotion, she was afraid to leave Rob’s side and be alone. She had been jumpy and paranoid, an emotional wreck who could barely sleep and convinced attackers were always lurking in the shadows waiting for her.

The counsellor had assured her that it was normal, she had been through something traumatic, and it had affected her on many levels. Rob had squeezed her hand through every session, unable even to be alone to talk to a therapist and to need him more than ever to make her feel safe.

Rob was strong an