"No need to blame yourself, Bell. It will happen regardless, and even with a warning, I would have still experienced the pain. What matters is the value of the information you provided. I appreciate it greatly, and I want to thank you for that," Kisha reassured Bell, trying to alleviate its self-reproach.
Kisha then turned her attention to Duke, who was gazing at her with pursed lips, clearly wrestling with whether to let her return or not. "Can you explain what caused the sudden pain you experienced?" Duke asked, his voice soft and coaxing. He lowered his tone almost to a whisper, the warmth and subtle vibration in his voice, from his Adam's apple, adding a touch of masculinity that made his concern feel even more intimate.
