You crossed the room, dropped to your knees in front of him, and pressed your forehead to his. His scales were cool at first, then warm as they absorbed your heat.
You turned to Grunk, a wild grin spreading across your face. âWe made it. We actually made it.â
Grunk tilted his head. His translator collar, a sleek band of silver around his thick neck, buzzed to life after a moment. âStructural integrity: failing. Life support: offline. You: afraid.â
They led you to separate shuttles. Grunkâs frame wouldnât fit in the human transport, they said. Heâd have to take the cargo hauler.
He looked up.
âNot yet,â he said. âThirty more seconds.â
