Athena's eyes fluttered open. "I… I can't feel my hands," she whispered.
"Don't talk. Just breathe."
She gave a weak laugh, breath hitching. "You sound… scared."
Kraven's grip tightened on the steering wheel. "You wish," he muttered. But the muscle in his jaw ticked in worry.
The hospital came into view… a gleam of white light in the dark. Kraven didn't bother finding a spot. He pulled straight up to the emergency entrance and threw open his door.
He got out, rounding the car in seconds. As soon as he opened her door, she reached for him again, desperate and trembling. Kraven didn't hesitate… he lifted her into his arms.
Her head fell against his neck, breath warm against his skin. "You smell safe," she whispered, voice breaking on the edge of something raw.
Kraven's throat tightened. "Don't talk," he said quietly, stepping through the sliding doors. "You'll be fine soon, Athena. I promise."
