"You don't have to accept the soul binder, you know," Luke said as we walked hand in hand across the familiar islands, heading out beyond the fragmented city at the realm's center.
"I won't let fear stop me," I said with more determination than I felt. "Always. I've always given in to it. But I won't anymore. If this works, I can finally have a chance to use my power for something greater, to be the star this world needs me to be."
"I'm worried about you. What if it doesn't work?"
"Then it doesn't work. But I'm serious, Luke. I need you. I can't do it alone."
"You won't be." His hand snaked out, wrapping around my waist. I yelped as he plucked me off the ground like a child, carrying me like a princess. "I'll carry every step of the way if I have to."
I giggled, squirming in his arms. "I get it, I get it. So put me down already!"
"Hmm, no, I don't think so."
"Please? It's embarrassing!" I said, blushing furiously as the few remnants around took notice.
