Page 37 of Heatbound Hearts

I start laying out our gear - waterproof packs, enchanted compasses that always point towards Caelus, and vials of anti-seasickness potion. As I explain each item's purpose, I can't help but notice Bronwyn's expression growing more and more anxious.

"We'll be taking a Terramystian vessel," I continue, trying to keep my voice steady and reassuring. "It's crafted from living wood that responds to the captain's will. Makes navigating the magical currents a hell of a lot easier."

I describe the journey in detail - the bioluminescent wake we'll leave behind us, the possibility of encountering moonwhales or other sea creatures, and the ever-changing weather patterns we might face. With each new piece of information, I see Bronwyn's knuckles whiten as she grips the pack in her hands.

Pausing in my explanation, I move to her side, gently taking her hand in mine. Her fingers are cold, and I can feel a slight tremor running through them.

"Hey," I say softly, my voice for her ears only. "I know this is a lot to take in. But I promise you, Bronwyn, I'll be right beside you every step of the way."

Her green eyes meet mine, filled with a mix of fear and determination. I give her hand a reassuring squeeze, my thumb tracing small circles on her skin.

"I've made this journey plenty of times," I tell her, my voice low and steady. "I know how to keep us safe."

Bronwyn takes a deep breath, some of the tension leaving her shoulders. "I trust you, Zyx," she says, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's just... I've never even seen a body of water bigger than a small lake before. And now we're crossing an entire sea?"

I nod, understanding her apprehension. "I get it. It's a big change. But think of it this way - you've already traveled between worlds. Compared to that, a little sea voyage is nothing, right?"

A small smile tugs at the corners of her mouth, and I feel a surge of relief. "When you put it that way..." she says, a hint of her usual dry humor returning.

"Besides," I add, pulling her closer, "I'll be there to hold your hand the whole time. And if the sea gets too rough, well... I've got wings, remember? I'll fly you the rest of the way myself if I have to."

That earns me a genuine laugh, the sound warming my heart. Bronwyn's grip on my hand relaxes, and I can see the fear in her eyes being replaced by something else - excitement, maybe even a touch of wonder.

"Okay," she says, nodding firmly. "I'm ready. Let's do this."

20

BRONWYN

Igrip the ship's railing, my knuckles turning white as I stare at the vast expanse of lavender sea before us. The gentle rocking of the vessel sends waves of unease through my stomach. I've never been on water before, let alone a body this immense. The sheer magnitude of it all overwhelms me, and I feel my breath quicken.

"You okay?" Zyx's deep voice rumbles close to my ear, his warm breath tickling my skin.

I turn to face him, forcing a weak smile. "Just a bit... out of my element."

His midnight blue wings rustle as he steps closer, wrapping an arm around my waist. The contact instantly grounds me, and I lean into his solid frame.

"I got you," he murmurs, his silver eyes meeting mine. "Is it the seasickness? I have vials for that."

I shrug, swallowing hard. "I think it's more the feeling of not being able to escape and the fear the ship could go down. I don't like not having any contingencies or ways to protect myself. Orcs and other nasties."

Zyx's grip tightens slightly, a protective gesture that sends a flutter through my chest. "Well, no orcs here. Just us and the open sea."

As if on cue, the ship lurches, and I stumble. Zyx catches me effortlessly, his strong arms steadying me.

"Shit," I mutter, embarrassed by my clumsiness.

Zyx chuckles, the sound vibrating through his chest. "You'll find your sea legs soon enough. Here, let me show you a trick."

He guides me to the center of the deck, positioning himself behind me. His hands rest lightly on my hips, and I feel heat rise to my cheeks at the intimate contact.

"Spread your feet shoulder-width apart," he instructs. I comply, feeling slightly more stable. "Now, bend your knees slightly. Good. This stance will help you move with the ship instead of fighting against it."

As we stand there, swaying gently with the motion of the waves, I gradually feel my anxiety ebb. Zyx's presence, solid and reassuring, anchors me. I lean back against him, savoring the warmth of his body.

"Better?" he asks, his lips brushing against my ear.

I nod, turning my head to meet his gaze. "Much better. Thank you."

---