Davian.
I didn't waste another second.
Carefully, as though she were made of fragile glass, I gathered Maria into my arms. Her body felt unbearably hot against my chest, the heat seeping through my clothes, reminding me again, too harsh, too far. I moved slowly, deliberately, afraid that even the smallest jolt might hurt her more.
The bed was only a few steps away, yet it felt like miles.
I lowered her onto the mattress with care, adjusting her position so she lay on her side, her breathing shallow but steady. For a moment, I simply stood there, staring down at her. Her lashes rested dark against her pale cheeks, her lips slightly parted, her brow faintly creased even in unconsciousness, as if pain followed her even into sleep.
Guilt twisted sharply in my chest.
