Chapter 44

We never finish our game. After our shower, we tumble right back into the bedroom, and though Calder seems eager for the next challenge, I don't miss the fatigue in his eyes. We spent the whole day hauling our things up three flights of stairs and the better part of the night hungrily devouring each other. Any normal person would have collapsed long ago. And that's not even considering the emotional strain of the day.

I suggest we take a break and lie down for a little while. Calder seems reluctant at first, but as soon as the protest leaves his lips, his mouth widens in a yawn.

"You know," I say, "if you're tired, we can end the game and you can just give me the present."

His lips curl into a secretive smile. "It's too important for that. But you're right. We should rest for a while."

"Just a little while," I say.

"Just a little while," he agrees.

We throw some sheets down on the mattress and curl up next to each other. We don't speak. It's enough to lie here in each other's arm