Chapter 62 · The Life-Tide Source

"If you think I did this, use the badge to lock me out."

Cassian dropped the broken badge into my palm. His fingers stayed over mine, rough and hot. They shook once before he forced them still.

"Send me to judgment when we get out."

"And if I don't?"

"Then I fight beside you."

I curled my fingers around the metal. Its jagged edge bit into my skin.

"You don't get to walk away after this."

His jaw tightened. "I know."

"Stop saying that."

"Then tell me what to say."

The words came out raw. No command. No polished soldier's control.

That only made me angrier.

I stepped closer until his chest nearly brushed mine. Heat pushed through our torn clothes. "Say you wanted me."

His breath caught.

"Mara—"

"Say it." I lifted my chin. "Not in some memory. Not because we're trapped in a dying chamber. Say it while you can still choose."

His eyes dropped to my mouth.

Then they came back to mine.

The chamber shook. A split pipe burst overhead, spraying icy water across his cheek. He didn't move.

Neither did I.

"I wanted you," he said.