Chapter 9 · You want to protect someone?

He did, but his eyes were unfocused.

"You want to protect someone?" she asked.

"No."

"Then fight it."

"I am fighting."

"You're losing."

His head jerked toward the tanks.

Lila stepped between him and the glass. "You go through me first."

Cain froze.

The distance between them vanished. His chest nearly touched hers. One hand rose, stopping beside her waist without landing. His breath hit the side of her face.

"Move," he said.

"Make me."

His jaw clenched. "You don't understand what I can do."

"Then explain it."

"I can put you through that door."

"You can also hold your hand three inches from my body like you know better."

His eyes flicked down to the space between them.

"You notice everything," he said.

"Someone has to. You're busy trying to become a nightmare."

For one sharp second, his hand hovered closer.

Lila's pulse jumped. She hated that he heard it.

His gaze lifted to hers.

"You're afraid," he whispered.

"Of you? Yes. Of wanting you to stay yourself? Also yes. Don't get smug."

"I don't know what that means."

"Good. Keep not knowing. It might save us both.