So with hesitant, reluctant steps, I back away, out of his grasp and out of the circle of warmth I’ve gotten so used to. “I can’t,” is all I can manage, though I know my eyes betray me. Even now I can feel tears of anger and regret, tears I swore not to cry. But maybe the prospect of going off to war has made Cal bold and reckless, things he never was before. He takes me by the hand, pulling me to him. He’s betraying his only brother. I’m betraying my cause, Maven, and myself, but I don’t want to stop. Anyone can betray anyone. His lips are on mine, hard and warm and pressing. The touch is
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