Derek broke the hug and turned her to hug her properly. He held her. It was a tight embrace, his arms wrapped around her like bands of steel. He squeezed her hard, pressing her against the buttons of his military coat. It felt as if he wanted to squeeze the air out of Marissa's lungs, to merge her body with his so he wouldn't have to leave her behind.
Marissa gasped slightly, her breath short, but she wasn't complaining. She rested her cheek against the rough wool of his uniform, listening to the frantic, heavy beating of his heart. It beat a rhythm of fear and love.
"Alright, Alright," Marissa said softly, patting his back gently. Her voice was muffled against his chest. "You have to let go, Derek. They are waiting for you at the camp. The sun is already climbing the sky."
Derek groaned low in his throat, a sound of protest, but he loosened his grip just enough for her to breathe.
