ARIA

Some hours later, we stop for a break.

By the goddess, I'm beyond humiliated.

Ryder sets me down under a tree, and I keep my eyes on my lap. I feel like an invalid, and the worst part is that my sore knee only got stiffer while being carried by him.

I couldn't walk now even if I wanted to.

He sits beside me, his arm a little too close to mine. I'm pleased to see that he's panting, and sweat's beading on his forehead. "I'm too tired to continue."

"Hm."

He snaps his head in my ...