I sighed. "We can't keep doing this, Azriel. We can't keep arguing over this same point. Either you and I take the risk of deepening our relationship, or you accept the fact that I will take other lovers, be that Lucian or not."
He made a sharp "whatever" motion with his hand. "You are right. I will not mention it again."
"Good." I spun on my heel and headed for the door.
But as I reached for the handle, he added, "I told you once that reapers are sexual beings, that we mingle energies and recharge ourselves with other energy beings."
I paused, my fingers still on the door handle as I glanced over my shoulder. "Yes, so?"
His expression was as remote as ever. "So, we can only recharge with those who possess a harmonious frequency, and such compatibility is not widespread. When a connection is found, it is to be cherished."
I frowned. "I'm not getting the link between this and what we were discussing."
"The connection," he said softly, "is the fact that I can recharge with you."
I blinked. To say I was surprised was an understatement. Hell, I was flesh and blood, and he was energy. How was something like that even possible?
"I'm not a reaper. I'll never be a reaper."
"No, you are not."
My confusion deepened. "So what exactly are you trying to say?"
"Nothing. I merely explain what you see as unreasonable behavior." He hesitated, and something flashed through his eyes, something that resembled pain. "I once had a recharge companion, but she was killed while escorting a soul through the dark portals."
"I'm sorry—"
"There is no need for your sorrow. She died long ago, and was not my Caomh. While I regret her passing, it was not a life-altering event."