(Caius)
I woke the next morning with Isla still beside me. My side hurt less than it had the night before, and Vorak was stronger too. Sera would probably still find a reason to tell me I needed another day of rest. I was already planning to disagree.
'Do not start,' Vorak said.
'I haven't said anything.'
'You were thinking it.'
I looked at Isla when she moved beside me. Her eyes opened a few seconds later, and she smiled when she saw me watching her. I reached over and touched her cheek. After everything that had happened, waking beside her felt like enough.
"How do you feel?" she asked.
"Better."
"That isn't what I asked."
I should have known she wouldn't accept that answer. "My side doesn't hurt as much, and Vorak is stronger."
Isla sat up and looked at my side as though she c
