Twist of Fate

"You scared me," Zinnia said, her voice muffled as she buried her face against his shoulder. "I thought I was going to lose you."

"I'm sorry," Samuel murmured, his tone heavy with guilt. His fingers weakly brushed against her hair, trying to comfort her. "I didn't mean to make you worry."

Zinnia pulled back slightly, just enough to look at his face. Her hands cupped his cheeks, and her eyes searched his, as if to reassure herself he was really there. "Don't ever do that again. Promise me, Sam. Don't leave me like that again."

His gaze softened as he looked at her, and for a moment, he was silent. He could see the raw fear and relief in her eyes, emotions she wasn't trying to hide. Finally, he nodded. "I promise."

She sat back down, still holding his hand. "Do you feel alright? Should I call the nurse?"