Page 48 of The Darkest Knight

He didn’t reply, instead pulled her into his arms and held her. Niall inhaled the lavender smell of her hair and closed his eyes. It would be hard to leave, but no matter what, he could not subject her to the horrible truth that was his life. “It’s not always so bad,” he lied.

She lifted her face to him. “I don’t think I believe you.”

Her lips parted and he covered them with his, lacking the power to keep from it. When she pushed her tongue into his mouth to explore, he cupped her face.

Her hands slid down his body, avoiding his injuries. Light yet firm caresses were a piece of heaven.

They held each other, not speaking. He had to tell her goodbye. It was probably better if he left sooner rather than later.

Tammie met his eyes. “Tell me what this means.” She lifted the paper with the spell and read it out loud. “One of the valiant will once again live. Call to the end of the rising of darkness. The powers of evil diminishing. Lights of three moons shining above. The keys to the cages are sacrifice and love.”

He lifted her face up to look at him. “Those words do not matter. I have to go.”

Shoulders slumping, Tammie nodded. “Fine. I won’t try to stop you Niall. I don’t know what else I can do.” Her voice was too calm. His chest squeezed at seeing her so defeated.

He got up and carefully dressed, not looking at her.

Without a word, she walked out of the room leaving him alone. Then he closed his eyes and willed himself back to the alter-world.

Nothing happened.