Emily's fingers grazed Matt's as she tended to his wounds. She swiftly pulled away, focusing on the task.
Matt's eyes, once dull, now sparkled. "Emily?"
"Shh, rest," Emily whispered, avoiding eye contact.
Matt's hand enveloped hers. "Don't pull away. I need you."
Emily's heart skipped a beat. "You're still recovering."
Matt's gaze intensified. "I'm fine. Talk to me."
Emily hesitated, her emotions swirling. "What's there to say?"
Matt's voice dropped to a whisper. "About us. What happened back there..."
Emily's cheeks flushed. "Nothing happened."
Matt's eyes narrowed. "Don't deny it, Emily. I saw it. Felt it."
Emily jerked her hand free. "You're mistaken."
Matt sat up, his eyes burning. "I'm not mistaken. You care about me."
Emily stepped back, her voice trembling. "Of course, I care. You're my friend."
Matt's face fell, but he persisted. "More than friends, Emily."
Emily's denial spiked. "No! Just friends."
Matt's eyes searched hers. "Why are you scared?"
Emily crossed her arms. "I'm not scared."
Matt's gentle tone wrapped around her. "I'm here, Emily. I won't hurt you."
Emily's resolve crumbled. Tears threatened. "Matt, stop."
Matt's hands cradled her face. "Look at me."
Emily's gaze met his. Sparking tension.
Matt's whisper sent shivers. "I've been waiting for you, Emily."
Emily's lips parted. Matt's eyes dropped to them.
The air thickened.