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At the sound of the front door opening, Charlie sat up from where he’d been dozing on the couch. He watched as Rex went to greet Sarah.
“Hi,” she said softly, crouching down to wrap her arms around the big dog. “I’m so glad you’re okay.” She leaned her head against his soft fur, rested there for a moment.
“Hey,” Charlie greeted her casually as he approached the pair. “How’s Jesse doing?”
“He’s resting.” Sarah stood on shaky legs. “But he’s been lucid. It’s still early, but there don’t appear to be any signs of brain damage.”
“That’s the best news we’ve had in days.” He gave her shoulder an affectionate squeeze.
“Yeah.” Sarah’s voice was thick with emotion. Her eyes stayed downcast.
“Sarah,” Charlie said gently. “Hey, look at me.”
She shook her head, eyes watery as she lifted her face towards his. “I can’t– Charlie, I–”
The floodgates opened, her breathing ragged as she tried unsuccessfully to hold back the tears.
“Come here.” Charlie took her in his arms. “I know,” he whispered, running soothing hands over her back. “I know how hard this has been on you.”
“He saved my life, Charlie,” she managed to choke out between sobs. “He…I owe him everything.”
“And you saved his.” He held her tightly. “You were right there when he needed you. You knew something was off. None of us would have caught it, but you did. Give yourself some credit, sweetheart.”
Sarah nodded slowly, face still buried against his chest. “We almost lost him.”
“But we didn’t.” Charlie laid a steadying hand on her shoulder, an attempt to ground her. “We didn’t.”
She nodded again, her trembling beginning to subside. “Your shirt’s all wet.”
Charlie laughed quietly. “It’ll dry.”
Pulling back slightly, Sarah looked up at him, eyes red-rimmed. “I’m exhausted,” she admitted.
“You and me both. Hell of a few days.”
Rex barked as if in agreement.
“Come on,” Charlie said, leading Sarah to the stairs. “I think we could all use some rest.”
They curled up together on the bed, Rex at their feet. Kissing Sarah lightly on her forehead, Charlie held her close as she began to drift off.
“Charlie?” Sarah murmured, already half-asleep.
“Hmm?”
“Love you.” She snuggled against him.
“Love you, too.”
Pulling the blanket over them, Charlie curled an arm protectively around her as sleep overtook him as well.