[ R Y D E R ]

As if Kara knew exactly what I was going to say, she quickly pulled away. She was breathing heavily, and her eyes were suddenly glassy.

"Kara," I said.

"No!" she yelled back, not wanting to be touched.

"No..." she said again, meekly this time.

I stepped closer and wrapped her in my arms again. She buried her face in my chest and I kissed the top of her head.

Damn, she smells like roses.

"I know what you're gonna say, Ry. Don't say it," ...