Page 23 of Bound to the Bounty Hunter

I ran a hand through my hair, frustration building. “We could look for a narrower point. There might be a place where the sides are close enough to jump.”

Arkon considered for a moment, then shook his head. “We don’t know how far the ravine extends. It could take days to find a crossing point, if one exists at all.”

I sighed, admiring despite myself how quickly Arkon assessed each option. His practical approach to problem-solving was impressive, even if it was currently shooting down all my ideas.

“What do you suggest, then?” I asked.

Arkon looked at me, expression grim. “We climb down and back up the other side.”

I blinked. “You can’t be serious.”

“It would be simple enough for me,” he said. “I could carry you on my back.”

My pride bristled at the suggestion. “I’m not some helpless damsel, Arkon. I can climb.”

“I don’t doubt your capabilities,” he said, his tone softening slightly. “But the descent would be treacherous for a human. My strength and reflexes give me a significant advantage.”

I wanted to argue, but I knew he was right. The practical part of my brain recognized that his plan was our best option. Still, the thought of clinging to his back as he scaled the ravine wall sent a confusing mix of emotions through me.

“You’re sure you can do this?” I asked, hating the uncertainty in my voice.

Arkon’s lips curved into a small, confident smile that made my heart skip. “Trust me, Samira. I won’t let you fall.”

My hands trembled slightly, so I shoved them into my pockets to hide the shaking, torn between irritation at my own vulnerability and a growing attraction to Arkon’s quiet strength. “Alright,” I said finally. “Let’s do it.”

We set about preparing for the descent, gathering vines to create a makeshift harness. I examined each one carefully, applying my botanical knowledge to select the strongest specimens.

“This Xanthosian creeper should work well,” I said, holding up a thick, silvery vine. “Its tensile strength is remarkable.”

Arkon nodded, accepting the vine and beginning to weave it into a complex series of knots. I watched his hands work, marveling at their dexterity despite their size.

As we continued to construct the harness, a nervous anticipation built in my stomach. Soon, I’d be pressed against Arkon’s back, completely dependent on him for my safety. The thought was both thrilling and terrifying.

No.

We had a mission to complete, after all. I couldn’t let myself get distracted by... whatever this was between Arkon and me.

But as we finished the harness and Arkon turned to me, his red eyes meeting mine, I knew that was easier said than done.

Arkon secured the harness around my waist, his fingers brushing against my skin. I inhaled sharply, acutely aware of his proximity. His muscular form towered over me, radiating heat and power.

“Ready?” he asked.

I nodded, not trusting my voice. Arkon turned, and I pressed myself against his back, wrapping my arms around his broad shoulders. The scent of his skin filled my nostrils – a mix of metal and something strange, yet not unpleasant.

“Hold on tight,” he instructed.

With that, we began our descent, Arkon finding handholds and footholds where I saw none. My heart slammed against my ribs, as if trying to escape, as we dropped further into the ravine, the mist enveloping us.

I clung to Arkon, feeling every shift of his muscles beneath me. Despite my initial reservations, I had to admit his plan was working. We made steady progress down the cliff face, far faster than I could have managed on my own.

As we neared the bottom, the mist thinned, revealing the ravine floor. Arkon’s feet touched down, and he carefully lowered me to the ground. I stepped out of the harness, stretching my cramped muscles.

“That was... impressive,” I said, trying to keep the awe out of my voice.

Arkon shrugged, looking almost embarrassed. “It’s nothing special for a Vinduthi.”

I found his modesty oddly endearing, a contrast to his usual stoic demeanor.

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