Kate was struck by the urge to lean against him, maybe wrap an arm around his shoulders, resting her head on his shoulder, feeling and hearing his breathing, once again making sure he was really there.

But she didn't do any of that. She had to hold it together. Just hold it together, just a little while longer.

"Right," she said, pushing herself up again. "Feet. It's gonna hurt, but I'm pretty sure there's shit there that's not supposed to be there, so..."