SAM WHISPERED against her neck. “I love you.”He’d always wondered what it would take to say those words, how much he’d have to push and prompt and coach himself to utter them. He didn’t realize it wouldn’t require any intention at all — that the words could come without thought or plan, as naturally and passionately and irreversibly as a kiss, without waiting for his consent.Suddenly he felt her weight sink into his arms.“Gaia.” He pulled her up to him, finding her face with his lips, kissing her eyelids. They were closed. “Gaia?”Her eyes didn’t open. She breathed a sigh. Her head fell forward, resting against his chest. “Gaia?”He cradled her head in the crook of his elbow and tipped her back gently. “Gaia? Are you all right? Gaia?”She had fainted. She was motionless in his arms. All the feelings whirring in his chest changed directions, from pure exultation to surprise and fear.He picked her up in his arms, cradling her against him. “Gaia. Gaia!” He jostled her, hoping to rouse her.
