[There was the initial wave of longing that follows a rather heated make-out session that crashed over her, but just as quickly as the sea pulls its waters back in, it was gone. She was focused, here for a reason beyond something selfish (and stupid).

Claire slipped in, not taking her eyes away from his injuries.]

Shit, [she whispered.] Are you okay? [She knew she had already gotten his answer to that before, but it was automatic to ask, given his current condition.]