Chapter 32 · You don't get to fall apart now

His voice dropped lower. "I know what I did to you. I know what the Bureau will do if they take you. And I know you're the only reason I can still stand. So if you want to blame me, get in line."

For once, he didn't sound like the hero on every billboard. He sounded tired. Angry. Real.

I should've used it.

Instead, my fingers tightened around his coat.

"You don't get to fall apart now," I said.

"Wasn't planning to."

"Good. Because I need you."

His grip froze.

The words were out before I could pull them back.

His eyes searched mine. "Say it properly."

"Don't push me."

"You need me."

"I need your power."

"That isn't what you said."

"It's what I meant."

"Liar."

I shoved at his chest. He caught both my wrists and pinned them against the wall above my head.

The movement was quick. Controlled. His body locked mine in place without crushing me, but there was nowhere to go.

My heart slammed against my ribs.

"Let go," I said.

"Tell me to let go because you want me to, not because you're scared of what happens if I don't.