Myrissa caught Rick as he fell, his body finally succumbing to the trauma it had endured. Blood pooled around them, and Knight's Endurance struggled to cope with the severity of his injuries.
His eyes were closed, and his breathing was shallow, yet his bond network was vibrant with life—alive but not aware.
She held him close to her chest. He was a surface dweller who had taken blow after blow meant for her and her corrupt partner.
This human had done everything possible to save ocean dwellers he didn't even know. He had made her mother cry for the first time in fifty years, and now, he was somehow stirring feelings in Myrissa that she thought were long gone.
It was neither respect nor gratitude, but it was something far more serious and dangerous.
Love.
The realization struck her with a profound intensity. She was starting to love Rick Rolland.
