Aire stood beside the open window, looking out at the gardens below. Xanden had walked in few minutes ago, just as he had promised.
Aire moved away from the window.
Her knees suddenly weakened.
She reached for the nearest piece of furniture, but her fingers barely brushed the edge before her legs gave way.
Xander turned to her.
He barely had time to register what was happening before he disappeared from the doorway.
In the next second, his arm was around Aire's waist, catching her before she could hit the floor.
"Aire!"
She clutched his shirt.
"Easy. I've got you."
Her breathing became uneven. She tried to straighten, but a sharp pain travelled through her lower back.
She gasped.
Xander tightened his hold. "What's wrong?"
"I don't know." Her voice trembled. Another wave of pain moved through her body.
Aire grabbed his arm. "Xander—"
"I'm here."
"My back."
He looked down at her, his expression changing when he noticed how tightly she was gripping him.
