A wide grin spread across my face when she followed me out of the room.
IN THE CORRIDOR, Islowed my pace for her to walk next to me.
She ran her hands through her hair and cleared her throat.
“Sorry for getting upset with you earlier.” She spoke in a low tone.
“You have nothing to apologize for,” I assured.
We silently continued down the corridor.
“Is everything alright?” She blurted.
I looked down at her in confusion.
She tucked hair behind her ear. “I’m referring to the ship. It felt like something hit us.”
I paused and cast a glance down at her. “There’s no problem with the ship. The shields sustained a hit, that is all.”
Grace’s head snapped backwards. “Did someone attack us?” Her voice shot up an octave as she asked.
“There’s no need to worry,” I reiterated.
Several times, Grace’s mouth opened and closed. Although she wasn’t afraid, I could sense her tension and worry.
My heart thumped as I silently pleaded with her not to change her mind about staying on the ship. I refused to consider the possibility of her being in danger or not being with me.
I started to take another step forward.
She tapped my forearm a couple of times as she joined me walking down the corridor. Pleasant tingles danced along my skin from her touch.
“Don’t leave me hanging. Who was firing at us?”
“The Krilex.” I replied, my voice filled with what I hoped was reassurance. “Do not worry, they’re gone.”
“What do you mean don’t worry?” Grace questioned, her tone laced with skepticism.
She came to a sudden halt and blinked at me.
Regret flooded over me as I groaned at my own words. My hand went to her shoulder.
I could feel the tension in her body dissipate as soon as my hand landed on her. Even though I wasn’t touching bare skin, I still felt a surge of energy from the contact.
“Scaring you was not my intention. I promise you; they are not a danger to us. You’re under my protection.”
Grace gave me a sliver of a smile. Her gentle exhale sounded like music to me.
A silent sigh escaped me, and I instantly felt a wave of relief wash over me.
“Thanks. I trust you.” She smiled.
Her words were like a balm to my ears. Her tender gaze filled me with warmth and melted my heart.
Unbeknownst to her, my body was reacting in ways that I desperately hoped she wouldn’t notice.
I increased my speed slightly, eager to reach our destination.
Meeting my K’sha was something I never thought would happen, but here she was, walking next to me.
