Her voice was quiet but firm.
"Don't run away."
The words made my heart skip a beat.
For a moment, I was tempted—truly tempted—to close the distance and kiss her. Her lips were right there, parted slightly, her eyes steady and searching.
But I held myself back.
I couldn't afford this. Not now. Not while threats still loomed over our heads—enemies, survival, the fragile state of our clan. The death of Zzok just this morning.
This wasn't the time to get comfortable.
I sighed, already knowing I'd regret pulling away.
With a flash of light, I activated [Warp], blinking up onto the mossy bank beside the pond.
Water dripped from my body as I turned, keeping my tone steady.
"Time to head back. We've been out here long enough."
I didn't wait for a response. Just started pulling my covering back on, trying to ignore my desires.
One day—maybe—I'd let myself want this.
But not today.
