Bruce's blood seemed to freeze in that instant.The blinding flames, scorching heat, and sharp explosions all receded, as if drifting far away.In Bruce's eyes, there was only her. Her hand hung limp, her face pale and lifeless. He could not tell whether she was alive or dead."Isolde…" His voice was hoarse and broken, so soft it was as if he feared shattering a dream.Claudia's gaze cut through the leaping flames and smoke and landed on Bruce. She let out a long breath."What are you standing there for? Hurry up and take her. I… can't hold her anymore!"Before she finished speaking, her body swayed violently. She fell forward, collapsing together with Isolde."Isolde!" Bruce moved before he could think, rushing forward in a blur.With one hand, he steadied Claudia. With the other, swift yet extremely gentle, he took Isolde from her arms.Claudia leaned against him, her cheek pressed to his chest, greedily savoring his solid presence."So many years… The first time… I'm being
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