“This has nothing to do with Kennedy.” His voice strained as he tried to regain control. “This has to do with you.” Eli took in a deep breath, roughly rubbing the stubble on his head. “Ciach Ort! Have you any idea what I went through when you disappeared?” His tone was harsh and defensive. “I couldn’t feel you,” he whispered hoarsely and turned away. “I searched everywhere, thinking maybe you were only out of range, that if I went a little farther, I’d be able to feel you. I never did. Hoping you were still alive, I went crazy trying to find you.”
