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one thought—one name—filling her mind until she could think of nothing else. Shiro.
“Though it would have been a kindness to rid the world of your filth,” he said without emotion, “I cannot say your existence has crossed my mind since our parting.”
“You assume a wretch such as you would ever occupy my thoughts?”
“Did you forget, Jorogumo?” he asked softly, darkness sliding through his voice. “I am not a mere Lord of Crows. I am the Prince of Shadows, and always do my soldiers await my call.”
“You cannot keep her warm?” A wicked smile curved Shiro’s lips. “Not with clothes on.” Emi’s mouth fell open but she was struck speechless.
“Who—” He slammed the yokai’s head into the wall again. “—said—” Another slam. “—you—could—impersonate—me?”
His eyes seared her, taking her apart piece by piece and laying claim to each one. His smile had never looked more dangerous—or more alluring.
“Shiro.” She wasn’t sure what she’d intended to say, but his name came out in a pleading whisper and even she could hear the longing in it. That was all the answer he needed.
The breathless elation she’d felt moments before shriveled inside her, replaced with an ache that ran deep into her heart.
“Let us return to the sun,” he whispered.
He held her to him as he shivered, held her as though she were his only anchor in a raging ocean.
“Is Izanami disconcertingly cunning or sickeningly lucky?” he murmured.
“You’re not leaving me in this mess alone, do you hear me, Emi? Heal yourself!”
“You can’t die now, Emi. I need you with me.” I need you. His words sank through her, bringing new warmth to her icy limbs. I need you with me.
His hand on her cheek tightened, and then his mouth was covering hers. She gasped against his lips, her eyes flying open. He lifted her into his arms, his mouth still crushed against hers. She wrapped her trembling arms around his neck, kissing him with the same desperation, the same fierce need.
His stare held her captive and simmered with words he wouldn’t say, perhaps didn’t even know how to express.
She had given up everything for duty, even her life. But this … this she couldn’t sacrifice, not even to save the world.
