The news struck Jamie like a blow to the gut. Fear surged through him, and he quickened his pace as much as his injured body allowed. When they reached Claire’s room, the sight before Jamie was heart-wrenching. Claire lay unconscious, her face flushed with fever, and her body drenched in sweat. It was agonizing to see her in such a vulnerable and frail state. A rush of emotions flooded Jamie – fear, guilt, and the overwhelming need to protect her. He couldn’t bear the thought of losing her or being apart from her.