Split or Swallow (Split or Swallow, #1)

by Lindsay Straube

“Leo,” Tem whispered, knowing that her words would bind him, that he would have no choice but to obey. “I want you to find Evelyn. I want you to choose your future.” A slow, relaxed smile broke across Leo’s face. It wasn’t joyous, exactly. Merely peaceful. “I don’t know where she is, Tem.” “Your father knows. He’ll tell you.” It was the least Maximus could do for his son. Leo tilted his head, considering something. She knew he wouldn’t protest—he couldn’t. But it was almost as if he wanted to. Just when Tem was about to give him the order again, he said: “Then I suppose this is goodbye.” For some reason, Tem began to cry. Leo lifted his finger, brushing the tear off her cheek. “I never thought I’d see you cry over me.” “I never thought we’d be saying goodbye.” “I’m not worth these tears, Tem. Trust me.” That only made Tem cry harder. Of course Leo was worth her tears. He was worth so much more than he thought he was—than she had thought he was. In another lifetime, there was a happy ending for them. But not in this one.