And in case you believe this offer is as half-hearted as your attempt at survival would be, it is not. I have no death wishes. . . on the contrary, I have every will to live and every ounce of tenacity within me to fight for it.
[his hand slides from her wrist, to her own hand, fingers closing around hers]
But I can't protect you. As much as my heart wishes I could, I can't. That is the way of this place, and it is my burden to help you when your beliefs and convictions mean your life is forfeit.
I am. . . asking that you carry that burden for me. Only for today. Only for this game. Because for once, I have that ability to shield you as you shield others. And if this is what it takes in order to protect every inch of you, including what's in here. . .
[he reaches out to place a hand over her heart, still trembling]
no subject
And in case you believe this offer is as half-hearted as your attempt at survival would be, it is not. I have no death wishes. . . on the contrary, I have every will to live and every ounce of tenacity within me to fight for it.
[his hand slides from her wrist, to her own hand, fingers closing around hers]
But I can't protect you. As much as my heart wishes I could, I can't. That is the way of this place, and it is my burden to help you when your beliefs and convictions mean your life is forfeit.
I am. . . asking that you carry that burden for me. Only for today. Only for this game. Because for once, I have that ability to shield you as you shield others. And if this is what it takes in order to protect every inch of you, including what's in here. . .
[he reaches out to place a hand over her heart, still trembling]
Then it is worth my life. And more.