Page 206 of Black Reign

I should argue.

I don't.

That frightens me almost as much as the kidnapping.

I let Xavier put his coat around my shoulders.

Let him guide me through the hallway.

Let him keep one hand at the small of my back.

When we reach the exterior door, London rain blows cold against my face.

A black car waits.

His people surround us.

For the first time since Papa died, I am not calculating exits.

Not checking cameras.

Not wondering who is following.

I know exactly who is beside me.

Xavier opens the car door.

I stop before getting in.

He looks down.

“What?”

I look at him.

At Ghost.

At Blackwell.

At the man I've loved in pieces and hated by surname.

“My only love sprung from my only hate,” I whisper.

His expression changes.

“You meant it.”

I wish I hadn't said it.

Too late.

I look away.

“I don't know what I meant.”

His fingers close gently beneath my chin and bring my face back.

“I do.”