Ryoko said, picking up one more box to carry to her waiting car. “I know how I did it,” Jen said. “Help. Lots of help.” She looked at Drake, who blushed. Sean, who looked even more underslept than the others did, gave Drake a high five. “You have superpowers, Professor. Usually Jen would rather work herself sick than accept help.” Drake put his arms around Jen. She felt the weight of his tiredness and thought, not for the first time, that he’d been a lifesaver and she owed him. But for once, the thought of “owing” someone didn’t bother her. Drake didn’t expect payback. And figuring out a way to repay him would just be fun. Jen was cradled in hemp ropes, a rich shade of green that she’d chosen and that even Drake, who didn’t have anything like her eye for color, had to admit was a great choice, flattering her pale skin, contrasting nicely with her red hair. Probably would highlight her green eyes too, but she’d closed her eyes a while ago, as if the weight of bliss was too much and she couldn’t possibly keep them open any longer.
