As Xylon's eyes fluttered open, the soft light of morning greeted him. His first instinct was to check on Eva, to ensure she was still nestled against him. With relief, he found her there, her body pressed to his.
However, his relief was short-lived as he surveyed her condition.
Despite the coolness of the morning, Eva's face was flushed with fever, her skin radiating heat.
Before setting off, he pressed his cheek against hers, a silent gesture to gauge her temperature. The heat radiating from her skin only confirmed his fears.
Xylon's brow furrowed in frustration as he felt the dampness of her sweat soaking through his clothes.
Her labored breathing only added to his concern, each shallow inhale a painful reminder of her struggle.
Her clothes clung to her body, saturated with sweat, and Xylon could see the telltale signs of her distress etched on her face.