Wandering Soul by Cassandra Chandler Page A

Dante’s room. Other than the relocated settee and stacks of books around it, nothing had changed.
    Dante set the glass of water on the bedside table. Without hesitating, he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her against his chest. Elsa’s heart started pounding. She was vividly aware of every place their bodies touched.
    All too soon, he released her, having propped her up against some pillows. He sat next to her on the bed, then brought the glass of water to her lips.
    Being coddled was strange and seemed inappropriate. She was supposed to be helping him, not the other way around. Her arms trembled as she reached for the glass. She wasn’t sure if it was from fatigue or his proximity.
    â€œPlease, allow me to assist,” he said.
    She didn’t have the strength to argue. Instead, she nodded, then drank half the glass with his help. Finally able to speak again, she said, “I’m sorry I slept late.”
    â€œYou may sleep as long as you like. I am merely relieved to see you so much better.”
    Better than what? Her brain felt like it was made of cotton. She struggled to put words together in a way that made sense. The last thing she remembered was being in his room and laying out some pajamas for him. She must have passed out.
    â€œI was just tired. I didn’t mean to leave you alone so long.”
    â€œWinston and Leonardo have been excellent company. And Garrett has been visiting twice a day.”
    â€œGarrett?”
    A surge of adrenaline scattered the fog in her mind. Garrett had been there while she slept? How had Dante explained his presence? What had he told Garrett?
    Action seemed imperative. Elsa leaned forward, but Dante gripped her shoulders, then gently pushed her back against the pillows. It was a good thing too, because the room was starting to spin again.
    â€œYou must not let yourself get overexcited.”
    â€œHow long was I asleep?”
    â€œA little over two days.”
    â€œTwo days?” she nearly shouted. Her mind reeled. How could she have left him alone for two days? And right after bringing him to her time. He must have been so lost. “I’m sorry.”
    â€œIt is I who must apologize. Bringing me here appears to have taxed you greatly.”
    â€œYou didn’t tell them, did you?” The question slipped out before she could stop herself, but once it was spoken, she couldn’t think of anything except his answer.
    â€œI have kept your confidences. You can trust me.”
    If only she could. But trust was something that had died in her long ago.
    Winston arrived before she could say anything else. His eyes had dark shadows under them, and his shoulders were slumped.
    â€œAny change?” Winston asked, shuffling toward them.
    â€œIndeed.” Dante stood, pushing stacks of books out of Winston’s way to clear a path to the bed.
    â€œGood morning, Winston,” Elsa said.
    Winston’s eyes widened and a broad smile spread across his face. “Oh thank God.”
    He stumbled over to her, hands outstretched. Elsa grasped them, leading Winston toward her so he could sit on the bed at her side.
    â€œAre you all right?” Winston asked.
    â€œI think so.”
    Winston leaned forward and pulled her into a hug. “I was so worried.”
    â€œUm, Winston, could you not squeeze me so hard?”
    â€œOh dear.” He pulled back. “I didn’t hurt you, did I?”
    â€œNo, I just need to use…” She glanced over at Dante, trying not to blush.
    â€œYeah, I bet you do. Sleeping for days. A grown woman!” Winston stood, but didn’t let go of Elsa’s hands. “I’ll help you up.”
    Dante was lingering nearby, and said, “Perhaps you would allow me?”
    â€œThat’s a good idea.” Winston turned to Dante and said, “You get her comfortable while I make lunch. She must be famished!”
    Winston patted Elsa’s hand, then hobbled out of