The Lightkeeper's Woman. Mary Burton

loosened his hold and drew his face away from her.

      Alanna wanted to pull away and stand on her own two feet. Even as her head spun, she reminded herself that she needed distance. Distance from him would allow her mind to clear.

      He savagely evoked the memories of the last two years. Those struggles had taught her that the security of Caleb’s arms was an illusion. His love had lasted no longer than a puff of smoke or a cloud on a breezy day.

      She tried to take a step, but her legs, still too weak to support her weight, wouldn’t allow it. Sucking in a breath, she tried once again to pull away. Still, she couldn’t manage alone.

      As if he understood her struggle, Caleb withdrew a fraction. But he didn’t let go of her completely. Like it or not, she needed him right now.

      Resigned, she allowed him to guide her down to the bed. She eased back against the mattress, letting it absorb her weight. Lord, but she was tired.

      Her eyes closed, she leaned back against the pillow. “My debt to you keeps mounting.”

      Keeping his head low, Caleb picked up her bare feet and swung them up onto the bed. He covered her with thick blankets, and then retreated toward the door. “You don’t owe me anything. We’re finished, Alanna.” He left without another word.

       Chapter Five

       A lanna woke in a panic.

      Disoriented, she lurched forward in her bed, gasping for air as if she’d been drowning. Dim light trickled in from a small rain-soaked window, casting a murky glow on the simple room more suited for a monk than a lady. No carpet warmed the neatly swept pine floor and other than the bed and nightstand, the only furniture was a single chest and the rocker by the fire.

      The room was a refuge but it didn’t encourage long stays.

      And then she remembered. Caleb. He’d saved her from drowning.

      Whatever vague hopes she’d had that all this was some horrible dream vanished. She was trapped on these isolated shores with Caleb.

      She remembered Caleb had been with her last night. When her fever had been so high, she’d been glad to have him close. His touch had offered comfort, but it had also stirred too many buried feelings.