Zale dove deep beneath the settlement, past the inhabited coral structures and kelp gardens, down to where the water turned cold and dark and blessedly empty.
He needed space.
Distance.
Time to get his treacherous emotions under control before he did something truly foolish.
"I think if circumstances were different, would...you consider me proposing you."
What had possessed him to say that? To confess his interest so baldly when he'd promised himself—PROMISED—that he'd offer only protection and support?
The bearer wasn't even interested!
He had two five-star mates who were probably going to arrive and tear Zale apart for daring to even LOOK at their pregnant partner with interest.
And yet.
Zale pressed both hands against a coral outcropping, letting the rough texture ground him.
And yet he couldn't stop thinking about Alex.
About the way those blue eyes had met his without fear despite being stranded and vulnerable. About the quiet strength in accepting help without shame.
