S.J.Kincaid

“What manner of person are you? I don’t know you.”

“Nemesis, you are absolutely extraordinary. I had braced myself for imminent death, and there you exploded upon us like some avenging angel . . .” His voice caught. “I have grown used to the idea that human beings die or they betray and I could only rely on myself, but that’s not true anymore. I feel I can trust you. That may seem so small an admission”—his eyes grew shadowed, his voice hoarse—“but from me, it is the greatest compliment I can ever give.”

“And now, I’ve agreed to yoke myself to the wife of my grandmother’s choosing. I have made many sacrifices. This one, I will not make. I will not sacrifice your life, and neither will you!” He stepped into my path, then reached up and clasped my cheeks, his eyes desperate. “You gave up your life for me. I can’t let you do that again. I couldn’t bear it if you did that!”