Oscar knew that Era was really okay. After all, Bogy had ensured Era's safety no matter what, even if it meant sacrificing his own life.

But the worry Oscar felt couldn't be soothed by any logical reasoning. His brain kept telling him that Era's safety was guaranteed, that Bogy was fully responsible for her safety, but it was all in vain. None of it mattered until Oscar could see for himself that Era was really okay.

"Let me hold you a little longer, Era," Oscar whispered as he nuzzled his face into the curve of Era's neck. "Please."

Era didn't say anything. She just gave a brief nod. After that,...