I never got the chance to tell him how I felt though.
We soon reached my house where my family was waiting anxiously at the lit up windows, some pacing back and forth.
"So, is this where you're staying? It's a nice little cabin, isn't it?" Derek quizzed me.
I simply nodded. Turning toward him, I said "Derek, thank you for bringing me back. I don't know what I'd do without you. I felt so lost and more alone than I ever have."
"Oh, well, your welcome. But it wasn't really anything major. I just couldn't leave you there, that's all." Derek smiled.
"No, really." I didn't think of what I did next until afterward. I simply hugged him. Hugged him and hugged all my worries out. "Thank you." I breathed in his sent. Pine and chestnut with a hint of wildflower. "Thank you so much."
Derek wrapped his strong arms around me, pulling me closer. "Again, I just couldn't leave you there."
"ALAZNE!" My father's booming voice yelled.
"Oh, no." I whispered. "Dad." Reluctantly, I pulled back, knowing that if I didn't, my father would hunt Derek down. "I can't thank you enough for helping me."
"How many times do I have to tell you, Alazne," Derek patted my head. "It was no problem. Just take care of yourself, alright? I would rather you not get lost again and in even more danger."
"Okay. I will."
"Good." Running and waving, Derek bid me good-bye.
I solemly waved back, but I summoned up my courage and shouted one last thing: "Derek! Wait! I lo-"
And then, I woke up to my 6:00 AM alarm.
