Lara finished eating the maroons, as they were called in the port city. She wiped her fingers with a cloth and set the small bowl aside.
Thornak stood near the window, half dressed and steady on his feet now. He looked much stronger than he had the week before, the poison now completely gone.
He stopped in front of her, close enough that she could feel the warmth from his skin. "Sit with me," he said, his voice softer now.
Lara nodded, and they moved to sit on the edge of the bed together.
Thornak studied her face for a long moment. "You look tired," he said.
"I'm fine."
"You say that every time," he replied, brushing a strand of hair from her cheek. "But I see you."
Lara swallowed. "I only rested when you got better."
"Then rest now," Thornak murmured. "I'm here. I'm alive. And it's my turn to take care of you."
He took her hand then slowly held it against his chest. His heartbeat was steady and strong.
