The moment Mira heard the words, she froze. Then realization hit her like lightning, making her face flush instantly.
She pushed herself off Ash in one swift motion, nearly knocking him flat again.
"I—I was just…" She stammered, flustered beyond belief.
Ash slowly sat up, rubbing the back of his head with an awkward smile. Leon hopped off and fluttered onto Ash's shoulder this time.
Mira quickly ran toward Uncle Zan and hugged him tightly. "Of course I'm worried about you too, Dad!"
Uncle Zan snorted but wrapped one arm around her nonetheless. "Hmph. You didn't look worried."
"I was!" she insisted, her face still red.
Behind them, several warriors exchanged knowing glances.
Ash stood up slowly as he dusted off his clothes. His gaze briefly drifted toward Kargan, who was still lying on the ground under Vakra's watch.
The warmth from a moment ago faded instantly.
