Chapter 19

Iris woke up aboard the ICTF medical vessel. The ceiling above her was white, and the air smelled of disinfectant. Then, there was the continuous beeping of a monitor. Her right hand had been reset and secured, and the burns on her back were treated and dressed. The doctor told her she had two fractured ribs and a mild lung infection, but she was going to live. "You've been out for three days." Nate sat beside her bed. He looked exhausted, stubble-heavy, and his eyes were bloodshot. "All 38 of the hostages were rescued. Frank was killed after resisting in Pelagian waters. He was shot by your gun." Iris studied him for a moment. "Have you been awake all this time?" she asked. He was caught off guard. Then, he turned away. "No." "Liar." She raised her left hand and touched his stubble. "It's prickly." The intimacy made both of them stiffen. Nate took her hand and gradually tightened his grip. His hand was large, calloused, warm, and rough. His voice was hoarse. "Iris. If