Vladimir did great thingsso could she. Besides they come first rightNot always.I stared. Id had they come first drilled into me since I was a child. It was what all guardians believed. Only the dhampirs whod run away from their duty didnt subscribe to that. What he said was almost like treason.Sometimes Rose you have to know when to put yourself first.

I know Im not supposed to say this but I love you.

Well you can think what you want so long as you remember - no matter how ordinary things seem between us - Im still here still in love with you and care about you more than any other guy evil or otherwise ever will.

He was too perfect despite being one of the most imperfect people I knew.

Because Ive got a lot more terms of endearment to use. Honey pie. Sugarplum. Bread pudding.Why are they all high-calorie foods

Whatever happened to the dragonI mustered my primmest tone. He has a name you know.Adrian pulled back and gave me a curious look. I didnt know actually. Whatd you decide onHopper. When Adrian laughed I added Best rabbit ever. Hed be proud to know his name is being passed on.Yes Im sure he would. Did you name the Mustang tooI think you mean the Ivashkinator.He stared at me in wonder. I told you I loved you rightYes I assured him. Many times.

Dont take the high ground and assume you already know what youll do. The truth is when it comes to someone you love youll find there isnt anything you wont do.

I should go I said thickly. Let me know when you want to start practice again. And thanks for...talking.I started to turn then I heard him say abruptly No.I glanced back. WhatHe held my gaze and something warm and wonderful and powerful shot between us.No he repeated. I told her no.I... I shut my mouth before my jaw hit the floor. But...why That was a once-in-a-lifetime thing. You could have had a baby. And she...she was you know into you...The ghost of a smile flickered on his face. Yes she was. Is. And thats why I had to say no. I couldnt return that...couldnt give her what she wanted. Not when... He took a few steps toward me. Not when my heart is somewhere else.

But when I touch you your aura it smolders. The colors deepen it burns more intensely the purple increases. Why Why Sydney He used that hand to pull me closer. Why do you react that way if I dont mean anything to you There was a desperation in his voice and it was legitimate.

Im backing down now. I really do love you. Thats why Im doing this.