Chapter 74

Before I could say another word, he vaulted over the barrier in one smooth motion and swept me into a tight embrace, lifting my feet off the ground. The tulips were crushed between us, but neither of us cared. "God, I've missed you, Dolly," he murmured into my hair, his voice thick with emotion. "Let me look at you." Setting me down, he held me at arm's length, studying my face intently. Something in his expression shifted—a flash of protective anger followed by deep tenderness. "You're too thin," he said quietly, tracing a gentle finger along my cheekbone. I couldn't hold back my tears any longer. "I've missed you so much. More than I even realized until now." Draven pulled me close again, shielding me from the curious stares of fans who had begun to recognize him. "I'm here now," he said firmly. "And I'm not going anywhere until I'm sure you're okay." "The flowers were supposed to be perfect," I said with a watery laugh, looking down at the crushed tulips. "They're perfect because th