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Not yet.

Eventually, Rhyven speaks.

So quietly I almost don't hear him.

"I couldn't feel you."

My chest breaks open.

There it is.

Not I thought you died.

He doesn't have to say it.

I move my hand through his hair once.

"I'm here."

His arms tighten.

"I know."

That's all. No confession. No kiss. No explanation for why he's here at all.

Just— I couldn't feel you.

I'm here.

I know.

A scream comes from across the courtyard. "HELP!"

Rhyven's body changes instantly. His forehead stays against me for one last second. Then he lets go.

I hate that he does.

I love that he does.

He gets to his feet. Slowly. His right arm barely moves. I look. "What happened."

"Later."

"Rhyven."

"Dislocated."

I stare. "You're walking around with a dislocated shoulder?"

"Currently."

"You're insane."

"Frequently." There he is.

My eyes burn. I laugh anyway.

"Can you fight?"