The walk downstairs took more out of him than Joe wanted to admit.
By the time they reached the bottom step, his legs were trembling, sweat prickling along the back of his neck despite the cool air. His lungs burned like he’d run a mile instead of crossed a house. He slowed, jaw tight, stubborn as ever, and Abby immediately noticed.
“Joe,” she said quietly, fingers curling around his arm. “You okay?”
He nodded, even though the lie tasted sour. If she hadn’t made him take half a pain pill before they left the room, he would’ve been flat on his ass halfway down the stairs. He hated that thought. Hated needing it. But right now, he was grateful for the dulling haze keeping the worst of the pain at bay.
He straightened when the doors to the dining hall came into view, squaring his shoulder
