Chapter 47 · The First Flood Order

"Say no," Cassian said. "Say it clearly, and I won't touch you."

He stood close enough that his chest brushed mine. Water ran from his hair, down his cheek, and vanished beneath his collar. His fingers hovered beside my throat, close enough for me to feel their heat without the touch.

The engine screamed below us. The metal platform shook under my boots.

My pulse jumped beneath his hand.

"You really want me to say it?" I asked.

"I need you to choose."

That was Cassian's favorite trick. Offer me a choice while blocking the only exit.

I grabbed his collar and dragged him down until our noses nearly touched.

"Give me your tide."

His eyes widened. "Mara—"

"Now."

His jaw locked. "You know what that'll do."

"I know what happens if you don't."

The chamber bucked. A crack split across the platform behind me, and black water burst through the seams.

Cassian glanced at it, then back at me.

"Last chance."

"Stop talking."

I yanked him closer. "Give me your tide."

He bent and kissed me.

Not gently. Not like an apology wrapped in careful hands.

His mouth hit mine with all the panic he'd been choking down.