With a hesitant nod, Emily placed her small, trembling hand in his. As he helped her to her feet, she could feel the warmth of his kindness seeping into her bones, chasing away the chill that had settled there.

Alexander led her to his car and wrapped a soft, warm blanket around her shoulders. “You must be hungry. How about we get something to eat?”

Emily nodded again, her stomach grumbling in agreement. It had been a long time since she had eaten a proper meal, and the prospect of food and warmth was too inviting to refuse.