"Try, and you shall fail." Derek found himself flying helplessly through the air. He landed with a thud against a nearby tree, his head pounding against the rough bark. He moaned and the world around him tilted sideways. He was vaguely aware of Nick pulling him into the car.
They bumped along the road away from the forest, Derek's head lolling from side to side. When they reached the highway, Nick pulled over. "Derek, can you hear me?"
"Ugh. Yes. Don't shout." the injured precept groaned. Nick looked at Derek, concern mixed with anger in his face, but he drove on back to the hospital.
*
Derek felt the bump on the back of his head. The doctors had told him that it was only a minor concussion, and not to worry. He was more worried about Alex. The sedative hadn't worn off yet, and they could only wait for her to regain consciousness, since the doctors didn't want to give her any stimulants. He leaned over her, pushing her hair gently back along her forehead.
"Penny for your thoughts." Rachel's voice floated softly over to him.
"She looks so small and lost." Derek mused, still staring down at Alex.
"She does, doesn't she? But she's never lost, as long as she has people who care about her." Rachel laid her hand on his shoulder. Derek smiled at that thought. He looked down at Alex, who began to stir. She slowly opened her eyes.
"Hey Alex. Shh. Relax, it's ok. It's all going to be ok." Derek whispered to her. Alex looked up at him, the anxiety vanishing from her face.
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