Page 126 of Savage Crown

So I school my face into steel and force my voice to steady.

"You’re going to be fine," I murmur.

Her lips twitch, like she doesn’t believe me.

Like she knows what I won’t say.

That I would burn the world for her.

That I would tear apart heaven and hell just to keep her breathing.

That I have never wanted anything more than I want her to live.

I was wrong.

I told myself I didn’t care.

That she was just a pawn.

Just another piece in my game.

But the truth is raw and ugly.

The truth is choking me.

I am in love with her.

And I am going to lose her.

No.

I won’t let that happen.

I move my forehead against hers.

"I’m not letting you go," I whisper, voice hoarse.

"Do you hear me, little thief?"

Her breath shudders.

So faint I almost don’t hear it?—

A whisper.

A promise.

A plea.

"Don’t."

My grip tightens.

I won’t. There’s no letting go.

44

RYLAN

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