Michael's POV
I carefully drew back the covers and wrapped my arms around her trembling form, drawing her close to my chest. Heat radiated from her skin like a furnace, yet she shivered uncontrollably. Her breathing came in short, labored gasps. She remained unconscious, lost in the grip of whatever fever had taken hold.
"Allyson." The sound of her name broke as it left my throat. I gave her a gentle shake, desperate to reach her through the haze of illness.
"Come on, wake up for me."
Nothing.
"I'm right here with you," I murmured, cradling her against me while smoothing the sweat-dampened hair away from her burning forehead.
Her lashes trembled, and suddenly her eyes opened. For one precious heartbeat, she looked directly at me. A ghost of a smile touched her lips before the fever claimed her again, pulling her back under.
Damn it.
I had to act fast.
