—Is it possible that you can't tell me anything... absolutely nothing? After everything that has happened between us?

Lia lowered her head, disgruntled, and he ran his hand through his hair in lively agitation. It wasn't because of her, but because there was less and less time left before Katherine came for her, and that had him in the grip of the greatest restlessness he had ever experienced.

—I'm sorry, I didn't mean to push you. —he kissed her on the forehead, holding her close— Forgive me, Lia, please forgive me. It's just that sometimes I long to hear your voice... to hear you in any other context than while we make love.

He stroked her hands and brushed her lips briefly, reminding himself that the girl did not know the reason for his uneasiness, imagining that perhaps, when the time came, she would be strong enough to utter the words that would allow him to keep her by his side.

—Are you sure you don't want to come with