Back on the cruise ship, Naomi laid on the bed, her body nestled comfortably beneath the soft sheets. Beside her, Zylan rested on his back, his arm draped over his forehead as his sharp eyes stared at the ceiling. His posture seemed relaxed, but his mind was anything but. His other hand was firmly clasped in Naomi's, and while he knew she was fast asleep, her grip had a surprising strength to it.
She had insisted earlier that he stay by her side. However, unbeknownst to her, she had grabbed his hand tightly in her sleep, holding onto it as though it were a lifeline or a makeshift teddy bear. The gesture was both endearing and frustrating, leaving Zylan in an uncharacteristically flustered state.
