“Let me eavesdrop,” I whisper. “If I’m caught, the consequences for me are far less dangerous.” “No,” he hisses in a vehement whisper. “You’ve done enough. This is my battle now, Clare.” He pulls me to him, his mouth to my ear. “And before you get another thought in your head, know this. I love you, too. You are my light, shining like a beacon. You led me out of darkness.” His arms around me tighten like a belt pulled taut while I try to compose myself. “Now go, little bird. Fly.”
