#Chapter 91-Did You Say…?

Derek helps me get into my bed. Bea and Tris have gone to take care of Sammy for me. I want them to have a moment to decompress after the entire scene they just witnessed. “Thank you for standing up for me,” I whisper to Derek as he sits beside me. He sighs. “I should have protected you. I will always try to protect you, Esme.” My hands move to his face. “You couldn’t have known. You were at work. You were getting the girls. Who would have guessed Sadie would be waiting to attack me?” “I feel guilty.” “Please don’t.” I shake my head. “You have nothing to feel guilty about. I know if you were around, Sadie wouldn’t have come. Seems like you’re the one always saving me lately.” “You’ve put up quite a fight yourself, baby,” Derek smiles. “It’s what I’ve always done. But don’t get me wrong. You standing up for me and trying to keep me—and my heart—safe still means the world to me. I can’t express how glad I am that you’re in my life and how you’re always there for me.”