Shadows In Durango

Chapter 71

******Sofia's POV*****

Groaning loudly, I twist in the sheets before stretching my arms out - only to wince and snap my eyes open when feeling a horrifying jolt of pain shooting up through my rib cage. Sitting up, I look around the room in a panic before my eyes stop when meeting Daryl, who was seated in a chair by my bed as he rubs his swollen eyes and straightens himself up. "Morning." He yawns out, as I groan and reach up to the back of my hand, suddenly remembering how last nights argument had ended between the pair.

Foolishly, I had forced myself between them during their fight which I certainly wouldn't be doing again any time soon!

I knew that they hadn't intended to hurt me, but I was still annoyed that they had even resorted to fighting in the first place they were supposed to be best friends! "Morning." I whisper, my voice croaky and softer than what I had liked for it to be.

Daryl brings his wrist up to check his watch, before standing to open up some painkillers for me to take, handing me a fresh bottle of water which I drink back greedily. Each swallow sent a tension down to my abdomen, a tender pain that seemed consistent to remind me of my war wounds.

"Thanks." I reply, handing him back the bottle once the pills were fully down.

"It's ten." He comments, sinking back down into the chair as I all but nod, feeling awkward and uncertain around him after his blow up last night.

He had blown things way out of proportion yesterday, all because I willingly agreed to go on the trip with Vincent.

I was horrified to see Daryl in that light, and I hated to admit it but this time around he had been the one to cross the line. He threw the first punch and from there, Vincent had every right to defend himself.

It was a strange dynamic, usually having Daryl be the one to make me feel better after Vincent's aggressive moments, but I hated to admit that this time - Vincent hadn't actually done anything wrong.

Sure, I wish he hadn't sent a hard knee into my stomach, but it was intended for Daryl and I stepped in the way - just like the heavy duty punch that came to the back of my skull from Daryl.

to hurt me, but I guess one could argue that

really sorry, for hurting you." Daryl starts, clearing his throat as I instantly hold a hand

got in the way." I assure, as he shakes his head before leaning forward with his elbows resting on his knees - face

Daryl explains, finally looking back at me as I swallow the lump in my throat. I already knew that, after Vincent had filled

understand why you're concerned but I wanted to go. He already told me about his life and his Dad, and I still agreed to go with him. It wasn't right for you to blame it all on him like you did - you didn't even give me a proper chance to explain myself either, you just went straight for Vincent." I breathe through my words, trying to remain calm and collected but ensuring that I share my disagreement with

say the very least... it wasn't who I thought

might hurt you if they learn that you two

us for the complete experience all for free. The next chapter is eagerly waiting

more to this than

at some point I would have to put my foot

decisions and after his violent outburst, I wanted to go

still going with him? Today? But you're injured!" Daryl's brows furrow, his hands locking together in discomfort as

in walks the man of the

blush and glance over at Daryl who obviously rolls his eyes before he pushes himself to stand up - making his way out of the room without another word. Vincent smirks knowingly, before moving towards me as I assume that he was going to take his place in the chair, but instead he jumps onto the bed beside me. I bite back a wince as he wobbles me slightly and

bruised face, as he chuckles and watches me - his

should see the other guy!" He jokes, as

clearly more unbothered by it all in comparison to Daryl who I feared still had

us for the complete experience-all for free. The

a second to react. You just came out of nowhere. I was so pissed off when he punched me, I just saw red

out of character for him which somehow made his