He'd never looked more wonderful.
He was staring at me, unmoving, so I explained, "I don't have a key anymore."
I didn't get up because I wasn't sure my legs would support me.
He crouched.
"Eva? What's wrong?" "I ran into Detective Graves tonight."
I swallowed past the knot in my throat.
"They're dropping the case."
His chest expanded on a deep breath.
With that sound, I knew.
Dark desolation shadowed Gideon's beautiful eyes.
He knew that I knew.
The truth hung heavy in the air between us, a near-tangible thing.
I'd kill for you, give up everything I own for you .
but I won't give you up.
Gideon fell to his knees on the cold, hard marble.
His head bowed.
Waiting.
I shifted, mirroring his kneeling pose.
I lifted his chin.
Touched his face with my hands and my lips.
My gratitude for his gift whispered over his skin: Thank you .
thank you .
thank you.
He caught me to him, his arms banded tight around me.
His face pressed into my throat.
"Where do we go from here?" I held him.
"Wherever this takes us.
Together."