Page 163 of Marks of Rebellion

---

My pulse increases. "I don't want you to have another panic attack. Let's stick to the walk and not overdo it. I think you need your rest."

"I can rest by the pool."

"I don't—"

"Hunter." Faron has an amused expression on his face.

I turn to him. "Hmmm?"

His eyebrow is arched, and he smiles. "I know you're worried about Vanessa, but if she leaves the room and feels okay, there is no reason to stay cooped up in this room all week. Sun can be good for the soul. Plus, it's a pretty relaxing space. Take advantage of the amenities if she feels healthy."

She grips my thigh. "Let's try it."

"Her fever only broke last night," I remind him.

"And now I'm fine."

"Hunter, try it. It'll be good for both of you to get out of this room," Faron insists.

I scrub my face. "Okay, Flower. Let's start with a walk and go from there."

Faron rises. "Glad you're feeling better. Keep getting rest. I'll check on you tomorrow. If you need me for any reason, call."

"Thank you," Vanessa says.

"You're welcome."

I walk him to the door, and when he's gone, I spin. Vanessa already has her bikini and my bathing suit out of my backpack.

"I thought we agreed to a walk."

She softly laughs. "No. You said a walk. I said, let's go check out the fruity frozen drinks."

I groan. "Flower."

She strips.

"The ship hasn't even docked yet."

"I'm going to shower. I'd let you join me, but I'm surprised you fit in that thing without me."

I chuckle. "It is pretty small."

She slaps my ass as she passes me then goes into the bathroom and turns on the shower.

"You aren't listening to me right now."

She peeks out of the bathroom and smiles. "I hear you. I just don't agree with you."

"It's a good thing I find you amazingly sexy and cute."

She raises her eyebrows. "Oh, why is that?"

"It's helping me deal with my frustration right now."

She smirks. "I can help you get a handle on your frustration."

I snort. "Go shower."

---