GASP!
Zoren gasped for air, just like someone resurfacing from drowning. Beads of sweat quickly formed on his forehead. His Adam's apple bobbed up and down, moistening his dry throat.
When his eyes shifted, they quickly locked with Penny's.
"Renren," she called softly, only to realize she still had to check his vitals. "Wait, I'll just—"
But before she could put her plans into action or finish her remarks, Zoren reached out and grabbed her arm. He yanked her down into his embrace, his arms wrapped around her as tightly as he could.
Penny's brows knitted slightly, feeling his arms and body tremble around her. She reached up to his shoulder, her fingers patting it gently.
"It's okay," she whispered. "It's… okay, Renren. You're back."
Zoren didn't answer. He didn't even move. He simply held her as tightly as he could, closing his eyes as he hugged her closer.
"Just making sure," he whispered, his voice still shaken and low. "Just… just making sure… you're with me."
