Risë Hickey lay bound on the sandy sea floor, her long auburn hair floating like a halo around her head. The struggle had left her breathless, and she succumbed to exhaustion, her eyes fluttering shut as she drifted into unconsciousness.
Shadow swam with urgency, his red eyes scanning the depths until they settled on Risë. His heart tightened at the sight of her still form, and he moved swiftly, yet gently, towards her.
"Hang on, Risë," he murmured softly, pressing his lips to hers. The transfer of air was tender, a life-giving kiss that filled her lungs and brought a hint of color back to her cheeks. He listened for her heartbeat, a steady rhythm against the backdrop of the sea's gentle lullaby.
Shadow's powerful strokes propelled them upwards, his mind focused on reaching the surface. Risë, still cocooned in the warmth of his embrace, began to stir, drawn back to consciousness by the rhythmic thudding of his heart against her ear.
As they breached the surface, Risë gasped, her eyes fluttering open to meet Shadow's concerned gaze. Relief washed over her as she realized she was safe, held securely in the arms of her rescuer.
"So it seems you really care about me like you did for Maria," Risë observed softly, a gentle smile playing on her lips. Shadow's eyes softened, a chuckle escaping him as memories of Maria Robotnik surfaced, a blend of joy and melancholy.
"I do," Shadow replied, his voice a quiet promise. With Risë safe, he felt a sense of peace, knowing that the bond forged between them was as deep and enduring as the sea itself.
