His eyes darkened, his energy fading. "Because I’m afraid I’ll wake up and you’ll be gone again," he murmured.

Sarah’s heart clenched.

Guilt settled deep in her chest as she held his gaze.

"I won’t leave you behind," she said, her voice steady—a quiet promise.

And this time, she meant it.

"Promise?" Nathan asked, his voice quiet, uncertain.

Sarah met his gaze. "Hmm. Promise."

Silence settled between them, neither speaking, yet both lost in thought.

After a moment, Nathan ...