“Then I shall carry you.” I take a step closer, but Erin flinches away. I pause, not wanting to alarm her more.
“It’s the only way I can get you out of here and to safety. I’ll be gentle. You have my word.” I’m virtually a stranger, but I’m her only hope at the moment.
After a moment of consideration, Erin nods at last. She is still shaking when I go to pick her up. I see the extent of her injuries. The bruises don’t stop at her neck. They go down to her arms and legs, and if I were a betting man, I would bet they cover her torso too.
She’s so small. Frail.
I can’t wait to see her blossom into a queen.
“Come, sweet girl. Allarick is waiting.” With that, I open the portal and carry the future Kraken Queen to her husband.
To be continued…