Winn pulled her even closer, tucking her against his chest. His arms wrapped around her completely, his chin resting on her head. "How about you leave that bit to me and you get better?" he murmured.
"I have to do this myself," she said, sitting up a little so she could look him in the eyes. Her gaze was firm, determined, fierce—even in her vulnerability.
Winn chuckled softly and shook his head in resignation. "Yes, ma'am. I never could stop you from doing anything." He brushed a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "From the day I met you, you've been a walking storm."
"How is this going to work from now on, Winn?" she asked quietly, shifting so she could see his face fully. "We just… work together and pretend that we do not feel anything for each other?"
"I'm afraid yes," he admitted. "I can't risk you getting hurt again. I'd rather love you from a distance." The admission scraped his throat raw.
