Valka
"Why can't I come with you?" I ask, distress rearing under my skin.
He pulls the cloak over his head. He looks good when he dresses--not as great as when he's naked. I only hate his clothes because he touches them when he has to leave. "You need to rest."
"I'm perfectly fine," I counter, irritated. "Take me with you."
"It's dangerous--"
"I'm dangerous, too," I push. "I've trained liked you wanted. I'm faster. I'm better. I can fight--"
"I know that." He exhales, runs his fingers down his face in exasperation."It's your scent. Anyone could smell you from miles away. It'd place an easy target on both our backs. You're safer here--"
My lips purse. A needy sound climbs up my throat. Angry tears fill my eyes. "You're hiding me away. You're ashamed of me."
"What? No--"
"Then take me with you. I don't want to stay here, alone. I ache."
"It's only for a couple of hours--"
"Are you meeting other women? Do they mate better than I do?"
