I thought you of all people would understand.” “Understand what? Being an idiot?” That seems to surprise him enough to add something new to his countenance. A trace of humor softens the stark lines of his face. “No.” A wry smile just barely curves his lips. “Maybe.” “I am an expert idiot,” I say. “I practice all the time.

Do you know what I have in my heart? I have hope. And I'll share it with the world.

You’re impatient,” he says. “I like it.

When we first found each other, I was a mess, full of conflict and fear. His steadfastness and unwavering faith in me helped to save me from myself, and from what I could become. Right now, he'd kill mother for me. Or he'd watch me kill her myself. He also understands this choice and how it's a part of me.

My heart is on fire, Griffin. I don't know when it'll stop.

His gaze hits mine with the force of a battering ram. He looks… appalled. “I-I won’t do this. I can’t… be with you.

It’s just you always…” “Run,” I finish for him… I gaze up at him. Soft light plays over his striking features – the hard planes of his cheekbones, his strong jaw, the slight hook in his nose. “I’ll still run, Griffin. The difference now is that I’ll run to you.” He looks at me for a long time, his gray eyes inscrutable. “You’d better.” I arch an eyebrow. “Or you’ll spank me?