Tangled Love

Jake's POV -

I turn around and walk back through the hospital doors making my way through the route I've now memorised. I push open the door leading to the private rooms and head for number 52, the one Emily is in.

She was still asleep when I left her but the nurse told me she'd be waking up soon. I don't want her to wake up alone but on the other hand I don't know how to react when she does wake up. She looked terrified before, her eyes wide and her body trembling. I curse myself for standing there frozen to the spot, I should have helped her.

All the days of waiting for her to wake up and it finally happened. I definitely didn't expect it to go the way it did but I completely understand why she was so freaked out. Jones kidnapped her, mentally broke her down and tied up her up for weeks. The marks on her wrist were still healing from the ropes he'd used. I stop outside the door and wait a moment before pushing it back slowly and walking in. I stop as soon as I notice she's awake and sitting up. Her eyes stare straight into mine and once again I remain rooted to the spot.

"Hey you," she says quietly, giving me a little smile. I smile back at her —

"Its good to hear your voice again, thought I lost you there for a moment."

My own voice comes out quiet and I fiddle with the small white tablets in my pocket once again.

"Are you okay?" She asks me and I nod quickly, my gaze landing on the floor.

I'm not okay, I'm definitely not okay but I can't let her know that, I need to be strong for her.

hand out to me and I walk towards it, taking it in mine. Her skin is so soft and her hand is tiny compared to mine. I smile down at it and she also looks at

you," I whisper, my voice barely loud enough to be

how long I was asleep for but I missed you." She responds, stroking her thumb

Her eyes widen a little at this

know what to do. I was so scared, I've never

having to admit how scared I am, I hate showing fear. I feel Emily lift my hand to her lips and she places a gentle kiss on it, reassuring me. I take a deep breath before carrying on —

in my throat as I remember him hitting the floor with a loud thud. I look up at Emily and I'm surprised to see her taking it so well. Her face remains emotionless and I can't

I haven't left your side, I swear. I've slept here every single night with you, I'm so sorry. It's all my fault,

tears I've held back for the past three weeks spill down my cheeks. I feel like the guilt is eating me up inside out, chipping away

my head and she takes both

I don't blame you at all. I

wipes the tears away from my cheeks and I nestle further into her touch, so grateful to feel her warm skin on mine once again. It's amazing how despite being in her condition, she's the one comforting me. I didn't realise how much I needed to

"I don't blame you, I never will so please don't blame yourself.”

"Thank you." I whisper, the tight hold on my chest finally being released. I felt like I couldn't breathe for a long time, too guilty to function properly. Moments of silence pass between us and I glance up to see Emily hesitate

mum come to

eventually find out anyway . . . the truth has a way of worming it's way out of the woodwork.