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“Watch where you’re going,” Maklr called. “Nell, do you mind if I carry you? I can make it to the center faster,” he said.

“Please.”

He scooped Nell in his arms, his stride sure, quick. Maklr didn’t stop until he made it inside the center, grateful every guard on duty knew him and didn’t force him to let Nell go. Once inside the center, he marched to the communal living area and put Nell down.

Nell started for the stairs. She was halfway up when she realized Maklr was no longer next to her. “Why are you standing there?” she asked.

“The guest rooms are on this floor. I should have asked first, but are they in use?”

“I know, but my room’s upstairs.” Nell walked back down the stairs to Maklr.

“Are they in use?”

“The guest rooms?”

“Yes.”

“Who cares?” She took both his hands in hers and stood on her toes to press a chaste kiss to his lips. “I’d sleep better knowing you’re with me like we did at the resort,” she said.

“If you’re sure.”

“Well, either you stay in my room with me, or I stay in the guest room with you. To be honest, my room is a bit more comfortable.”

Chapter 18

Nell

NellledMaklrtoher room. “It’s kind of plain,” she said.

“Decorations don’t matter,” he said. “Are you happy with it?”

“It’s comfortable. Safe. Predictable.” She opened the door. “Come on in.”

Nell sat on the bed, close to the pillow. “I’m sorry it’s small,” she said.

“It’s yours. This room is your safe area, a safe space. I’m intruding into your sanctuary.” Maklr stayed near the door.

“Aren’t you going to shut it?” she asked. “There are other people living here.”

His eyes widened. “Are you not allowed to bring guests into your rooms? Is there a rule against that? I’m sure there must be, especially at night.”

Nell laughed softly. “No, nothing of the sort. You’re such a rule follower.”

“Life is better with rules,” Maklr said, sitting on the floor.

“What are you doing?” she asked.

“I can sleep on the floor and hold your hand all night,” Maklr said.

Nell shook her head. “I thought you would hold me?”

“In bed?” He eyed the bed cautiously. “It’ll be a tight fit.”

“If you sleep against the window, I can lay in front of you and you can hold me all night.”

“If that’s what you want.”

“It is.”