Cyprus changed into his pajamas, his thoughts full of cheerful expectations. Per policy, he and Sadihra would be given a few days off to recuperate. It seemed only logical that they'd spend that time together and, after she'd had time to come to terms with everything, to heal, then he could broach the subject of them again.

He flipped his bed clothes back, reached for the lamp, when the pounding came at the door.

Goddammit, Lance-

The voice that roared wasn't ...