Hope's POV.
I adjust the bag on my shoulder, pausing at the treeline where the forest melts into the edge of the hospital's parking lot. Malakar stands beside me, his hand lingering on the small of my back, eyes scanning the surrounding area like a predator hunting for signs of danger.
"I'll be here." He says quietly, his voice low and protective. "When your shift ends, just come back this way. I'll keep an eye out for anything... or anyone."
I nod, my hand brushing against his chest. "I'll be okay. Just don't get caught lurking in the ER parking lot. Pretty sure it'll raise some red flags."
He smirks, though his eyes stay sharp. "Only if they can see me."
I give him one last smile before crossing the invisible threshold between our worlds. As I step onto the pavement, the weight of m
