Engagement Criteria - Chapter Five

Chapter Five

"You didn't promise me anything today," Nev said.

We were outside, walking toward the shelter we were sharing with Harko. The researchers' cheers were still ringing in my ears. "I didn't break any promises either."

"You should go to school and become a lawyer with that sort of response. I thought you wanted to do this together, Kes. Instead you took extra rebreather supplements for yourself, unclipped your harness hoping to leave me behind." Her breath was ragged. "If you don't want me here, just say that."

My heart caught up with my brain, or my brain with my heart. "I do want you here, Nev. I just don't want you hurt.…