George took my hand to help me in but I removed it and turned to Jacob.
He wasn't there.
The most awful feeling of dread swamped me. The demon was banished which meant Jacob had finished his assignment. There was no need for him to see me anymore.
It might even have led to his finally being able to cross over.
No, Jacob, please. Not yet. Don't leave me.
Somehow I didn't cry as I climbed into the carriage. It was as if my body couldn't make any tears. It was too empty. It felt like I'd just lost a part of myself. A big part. The best part. The most vital part.
And I hadn't even said goodbye.