Jamie’s heart lifted with a glimmer of hope, but for now, he focused on the task at hand. Gently, he scooped Claire into his arms, careful to support her injured leg, and rose to his feet. He carried her towards their horses, his steps slow and deliberate; their eyes met for a brief moment, a silent exchange of emotions passing between them. Even as their bodies pressed closer, the tension between them lingered unresolved and heavy, yet beneath it all, their connection remained unbroken.