She's human, I tell myself. Not weak, just human. "Stay with me," I mutter as I carry her back to my room. I sniff her hair, which is partially in my face. She smells enticing and that isn't a good thing.

"Please put me down," she requests when we're halfway to our destination.

I slowly drop her legs and tilt her body upright. Breathing heavily, she grabs the wall and hangs her head. A few seconds later, she places her hands on her knees and takes huge gulping breaths ...