Page 80 of In the Dark

“We’re going to do our best. And if it doesn’t work, then we’ll try something else.”

She sobered and turned away from him slightly. “I think you mean if it doesn’t work, then we die.”

“I refuse to believe in a no-win situation.”

“I’m still me, on the inside,” she said plaintively. “Try to remember that when we wake and I attempt to kill you.”

He placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. “I know, my love. I know.”

Karsia closed her eyes and wished the moment would last a little longer. Borrowed time could only go so far, she knew. Indeed, they were running on fumes and the largest part of her did not expect a happy outcome. Morgan would most likely not be able to return to her, and the small shred of the soul that still belonged to her would fade into nothing once Darkness took over completely.

It was only logical.

Her heart thudded against her chest at the sheer intensity of her feelings for him, and she once more wished they had met at a different crossroads. Then there was the possibility she may not have given him a second look—and would have been worse off for it.

“If we never see each other again, then I need you to know that finding you has been the most amazing thing in my life. And I love you deeply.” She smiled bitterly. Wouldn’t it be just her luck? She’d finally met a man who could be her match and their time together was cut short. “Whatever we have to do to get our chance to be together, then I am willing to do it. I’ve paid the price for someone I love once. I’m no stranger to it.”

Morgan growled and tightened his grip on her. “Don’t talk. There’s a way and we’ll find it,” he insisted. “I swear it.”

She cupped his cheek. “I’m afraid for you. What will happen if I try to hurt you? Or if I succeed?”

“You won’t. Your sisters and I are fighting for you. We’re going to find a way.”

A tone sounded in his ears, low and insistent.

Karsia was aware the instant his posture changed. “Morgan?”

“Our time is up.” Already consciousness tugged at him and he saw her form growing insubstantial. He bent for a final kiss and his lips passed through her. “I’ll find you again. Remember to fight.”

Her mouth moved, although no words emerged.

Still he spoke to her, wanting her to understand. “You fight for yourself, and you fight for us. Hold her back and give us the time we need to get prepared. We’ll take it from there and get you out. I promise!”

There in the protection of his arms, the shred of Karsia, the embodiment of her purest self, disappeared the moment her physical body awakened. And Morgan was forced out.

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