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They bypassed the first island, opting for one deeper inside the cluster. He found a twiggy mound and headed toward it.

“Oh, not here.” Abby shook her head, seeing where he planned to get out. “That’s a gator nest.”

“Ah. We best not agitate it.” Many species were downright feral when their young were at risk.

He swam further, finding a more promising location in the dark.

“Here?” He pointed.

“It’s hard to see, but if there’s no nests it should be fine.” Abby nodded. “I guess this little inlet is too small for boats to pass.” She shivered against his chest.

“Yes. That is my hope.” Ashtoret trudged ashore with Abby cradled in his arms.

“Are we waiting them out?”

“You need sleep and I could use some, too.”

“A flat spot to lie down is going to be hard to find with all the twisted mangrove roots, but beggars can’t be choosers.” Abby scrunched-up her face.

“No.” He laughed at her moue of distaste. “I like that saying.” Ashtoret picked his way through the growth, away from the shore.

“Well, I’m sure you’ll hear more before this sleigh ride from hell is over.” The distress in Abby’s voice was noticeable.

“I appreciate your aid. You are in this situation because of me. I will find a way to liberate Vintor and your sire,” he promised earnestly.

“Thank you, Ash. I couldn’t leave you back there. Believe it or not, I had a pretty good idea what I was getting into.” Abby attempted to smile. And though it was uncertain and tired, it still lit up her face. “You can put me down now.” She wiggled to get free, her hips grinding into his abs.

“No. Stay. I can tell you’re exhausted, and I don’t want you to trip. From what I know of your kind, my sight is better in the dark.” He also liked having her pressed against him. He was tempted to shift the arm beneath her lush behind, so he could cup one full cheek, but refrained.

Don’t get any smart ideas. Focus on the mission.

“Um, okay.” Abby sounded unsure, yet she didn’t release him, instead snuggling further into his grasp.

Ashtoret smiled. Despite his attempt to behave, his thoughts returned to the taste of her mouth when he breathed for her in the water. He stared down at her full lips, wanting another taste. His expression shifted to a frown when she shivered, and he realized just how cold she was. Abby’s hands were like ice where they inadvertently rubbed against his shoulders, attempting to suck up his body heat. And her otherwise ruby lips had a slightly blueish tinge.

She’s freezing. That’s why she’s humoring you. He instantly felt guilty for his wayward thoughts.

“Ash, why are you growling? Is your translator broken? It’s not translating.” Abby looked up at him in concern, her blue-green eyes going wide.

He instantly ceased the rumble churning in his chest. Don’t scare her, you dolt!

“That’s because I wasn’t saying anything. I’m frustrated with everything, and you are freezing.” He noticed a relatively clear area and came to a halt. “This will have to do. Now take off those wet clothes before you get sick.”

He put Abby down and started to strip off his own wet clothes.

Abby

“What?” Abby asked, her voice going up several octaves.

With only the moon above and distant city lights it was hard to see Ash as he pulled the soaked sweatshirt over his head, then began tugging off his cargo pants, but she saw enough.

Oh, holy bejezus, I don’t think he’s got anything on under there.

“Peanut, clothes off,” he insisted sternly, and she shivered hearing the deep rumble in his voice.

Ash reached up and hung his clothes over a nearby branch, so they could dry. He then got in her personal space.

“Do you need help?” he asked.