Page 60 of Blood & Snow
The chemistry between us is too virulent to stop.
"Anatomy classes and first aid training. Plus watching Irina patch up everyone in our building when they can't afford doctors."
She applies antibiotic ointment to the cuts.
"Being poor teaches practical skills."
"You're not poor anymore."
"No, I'm a criminal instead. Much better situation."
But she smiles slightly when she says it, taking some of the sting from the sarcasm in her words.
I reach up to touch her face, thumb brushing across her cheek.
She doesn't pull away, instead leaning into the contact while her eyes flutter closed.
"You could leave," I tell her quietly.
"Take the money I've paid you and disappear with your family."
"Could I?"
She opens her eyes to meet mine.
"Would you let me go if I tried?"
I don't think the question is sincere, but I consider it thoughtfully.
The rational answer is yes—cutting ties with her would eliminate complications and allow focus on completing Markov's mission.
But rationality has little influence over my actions where she's concerned.
"No," I admit.
"I wouldn't let you go."
"I know."
She continues bandaging my shoulder with steady hands.
"That's why I stopped thinking about leaving."
Her confession makes heat spool out through my chest.
She's accepted her place in my world, acknowledged the bond between us that grows stronger despite every rational objection.
The knowledge makes me want to claim her again, to reinforce my ownership over her body and mind.
She starts to pull her hand away, but I catch her wrist and hold it in place.
"Stay close," I tell her.
"I'm right here." Nadya's confused laugh makes heat creep into her cheeks and I smile at how innocent she seems in all of this.
Still, after everything she's seen me do, she is so pure.
"Closer."
