Calculated Risk (Triumph Over Adversity #1) - Lynn Shannon Page 0,3

learned the hard way never to underestimate the enemy.

“Come on. Let’s get you to my house.” Hers was a crime scene. Better to leave it untouched for the police.

He wrapped an arm around Addison’s slender waist. With ease, Jason helped her stand. Even in the dim lighting, her complexion was pale. Auburn hair swayed around her face, the curls tangled with leaves and grass. She was barefoot.

Tenderness swept over Jason, catching him off guard. Addison had moved into the house next door six months ago, and while they’d struck up an easy friendship, he’d avoided becoming more.

Addison swayed and then sagged against him. Shock? After the ordeal she’d just been through, it was possible.

Raindrops peppered Jason’s head as an icy wind skittered across the yard. He didn’t have time to help her walk. If Addison was going into shock, the cold wasn’t doing her any favors. She needed to be dry and warm. He hooked an elbow under her knees, lifting her into his arms.

Addison’s hand came up to clasp his neck. “I...you don’t have to…”

She trembled, her teeth chattering.

Jason ignored her feeble protests and started across the yard with quick strides. He was so focused on getting Addison inside, it took several paces before he realized Connor wasn’t beside him. He glanced over his shoulder. The dog stood at attention, facing the woods. A low, rumbling growl vibrated his chest.

Jason needed no further convincing. He tightened his grip on Addison and ran.

Three

Hours later, Addison limped out of the emergency room heading for the hospital exit. The police had taken photographs of her injuries, along with her statement. They’d also taken her clothes as evidence. A kind nurse had rustled up some scrubs, but Addison was eager to change into her own pajamas.

She couldn’t process it. The attack. Being strangled. She was no stranger to violence—her ex-husband had broken his vows and struck her—but she’d thought those days were behind her. To be violated again in her own home, a place she’d worked hard to make safe, was devastating.

Don’t think about it. Focusing on the assault would make her feel helpless. There was nothing worse. Instead, Addison sent another prayer to the Lord. The small measure comforted her and served as a reminder of her blessings. Things could’ve been so much worse.

The automatic doors slid open into the hospital waiting room. Jason rose from a chair. He wore cargo pants, a long-sleeved T-shirt, and combat boots. His dark hair was mussed, drawing attention to the curves of his face. The high brow, strong nose, and square chin were well proportioned. Faded scars crisscrossed his left cheek, carving a path from his hairline into the collar of his shirt. They should’ve detracted from his good looks, but they only enhanced them. Jason was rugged, a warrior, and the scars were a testament to his bravery.

His eyes were the color of warm chocolate. When their gazes met, Addison’s heart skittered.

Jason crossed to her. “Are you all right?”

“Fine. Some bumps and bruises, but nothing serious. Thanks to you.” Tears welled in her eyes, as the armor she’d wrapped herself in since the attack cracked. “Jason, you saved my life. If you hadn’t—”

“The what-if game will drive you crazy, Addison. I’m glad you’re okay.” His mouth quirked up at the corners. “Besides, it’s Connor you should really be thanking. He alerted me to the trouble. Woke me from a sound sleep and demanded to be let outside.”

She laughed despite the seriousness of the situation and swiped at the tears on her cheeks. “Good old, Connor. He’s my bestie.”

“Trust me, the feeling is mutual. Do you know how many times I’ve had to chase that mutt away from your patio since you moved in? He stares in your windows, hoping you’ll sneak him a biscuit. Greedy hound.”

“And I thought we were being so covert.”

He rolled his eyes. They both chuckled, and the weight pressing down on Addison instantly felt lighter. Jason had that effect on her. His confidence and quiet assurance were comforting. As though his broad shoulders were wide enough to carry any problem until it was resolved.

They hadn’t been friends long. She’d moved into the neighborhood six months ago, and Connor’s persistence in crossing into Addison’s yard had created chances for conversation with Jason. The more Addison learned about the former Marine, the more she found to like. He volunteered at a veterans' hospital, was a talented artist, and had an easy sense of humor. They also attended the same church.

In another time,