“I’m here now!”

With faint light streaming from above, part of his face disappeared into shadow. His brows were drawn together, and his eyes never wavered as he searched her carefully, afraid to jar her.

“Tell me exactly—where does it hurt?”

“I’m not—” She flexed her arms and legs, then gave a small shake of her head.

“Don’t lie to me!” Eric’s voice was edged with anger.

“If nothing’s wrong, why did you scream before?”

“My legs…” Hadley whispered, her lips pressed tightly together and her eyes lowered.

“I’ve been in the same position for too long, and they feel numb.”

What?

Eric’s doubt began to fade.

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah!” She bobbed her head eagerly.

“I’ve been leaning against the wall this whole time. Honestly, I’m not hurt.”

The heaviness pressing on Eric’s chest suddenly lifted.

“You’re a smart one.” He drew her into his arms, one palm resting gently on the back of her head as he held her close. His lips, dry and trembling, brushed her forehead once. Then he kissed her again.

“So wise,” he whispered, his voice raw with relief.

“So unbelievably wise.”

“Alright, let’s get you up.” Eric pulled back just enough to grasp her hand.

“Hold on to me. Take it slow, alright?”

“Okay…” Hadley agreed, steadying herself against him while rising carefully.

Her legs protested, tingling sharply as if pins had been driven into them.

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“Here…” Eric didn’t hesitate. He slipped his arms under her and lifted her effortlessly.

“Rest on me for now.”

Their bodies pressed close, and Hadley’s cheek found a place against his chest. Through the fabric of his shirt, the rapid thud of his heartbeat reached her.

She didn’t move, but warmth spread across her cheeks.

Eric wasn’t much steadier. Heat climbed his throat until his skin burned.

He coughed lightly, searching for something to say.

“For a hospital this large—how could they allow something like this to happen?”

Hadley’s reply came rough and quiet.

“Mishaps can happen anywhere.”

“That’s true…”

Their words thinned into short exchanges.

Eric glanced down, uncertain if he should speak up. His mind swirled with questions. What was her opinion of Ellis now? How close had they become? Were they already together?

His mouth opened at last.

“You and that—”

“Mr. Scott!” A loud call from above broke in, the workers growing restless.

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