I made my way to Coop's quickly with my duffel bag slung over one shoulder and my father's list in my hand. As I walked, I waved to some of the more familiar faces. Since the medical building was right across from Coop's work space, I decided to check in on Benny.

I noticed his jet black, unruly hair from the entrance and made my way to him. His caramel colored eyes lit up when he saw me. A crooked smile made it's way onto his face.

"Julia! You came!"

I sat down in the chair next to his bed.

"I wanted to stop in before I left with Coop. Dad says you're going to be okay in a few months to start patrolling again."

"Back to partners in crime in no time at all!"

"Look Benny, about what happened outside the gates, I just want you to know that i'm sorry. I never meant for you to get hurt."

He grabbed one of my hands and squeezed it reassuringly. The warmth from his hand seeped into mine. He rubbed his thumb back and forth across the back of my hand gently.

"Julia, it wasn't your fault. Those guys were looking for a fight and they weren't going to back down until they'd had one." Benny said in a soothing voice.

"I led the patrol. I took the path that led us right to them. What if they had killed you?" I choked out.

"They wouldn't have."

"Benny, they were government. They don't leave survivors or take prisoners."

"I knew you had my back. We've always had each others backs."

A single tear escaped and slid down my cheek as I choked down my feelings.

"Julia, it wasn't your fault. It never will be."

"I'd have never forgiven myself if you had died."

"And I'd never have forgiven myself if they had been able to break your arm instead of mine."

Benny gently tugged on my hand to bring me closer to him.

"Come here."

I brought my forehead to his as a few more tears slipped free. I let out a choked sob as he pulled his forehead back. I stared at his blanket and tried to calm myself. I felt him place his hand on the side of my face and looked up at him. Our eyes met and Benny slowly moved forward to bring his lips against mine. When I didn't move back he deepened the kiss and pulled my face closer to his. I kissed him with all of the feelings that I had inside of me. His lips were soft and moved tenderly against mine. After what seemed like forever and no time at all, Benny pulled back.

"Wow." I breathed.

"Yeah."

"Benny, I've got to get going. Coop is probably wondering where I am. Let's talk about this when I get back, okay?"

"Definitely. Be safe."

"I will."

Benny pulled me in for another quick kiss. I pulled away with a smile and made my way to Cooper's where Seth and James were already waiting.

"Took you long enough." Seth grumbled.

"Well, I'm here now. Let's go."