“Because it is so rare that others care for creatures such as I. That anyone might dare love us, let alone him. You are a rare thing, meant to be treasured, not dragged through the muck and mire as you are now.” Before she could react, Zadok’s illusion pulled her into a hug. He tucked her head under his and held her tightly to him. He smelled of cologne. “You show such compassion for others. I wish to show some to you. Accept it, stubborn girl. Do not bring yourself suffering merely because you are under the bullheaded opinion that you somehow deserve it.”
