I fall back with a thud, my frustration mounting.
If I hadn’t been so focused on controlling my power, I could have easily blocked his attack.
This isn’t working.
“Holding back during training is how you get killed during battle,” he says in his commanding tone.
I scoff at the double standard. “Then why aren’t you trying to hurt me?”
Did I just deflect by prodding an all-powerful creature into using their powers on me?
Yes.
It’s another stupid move on my behalf. But now that the words are out, I can’t help but latch onto them.
I mean, once you get past the suicidal undertones, they kind of make sense.
Sin looks at me like I’ve lost my mind as he extends a hand to help me up. “The energy you’re throwing my way isn’t even close to being strong enough to take out my power.” He says it gently, like he doesn’t want to hurt my feelings.
I ignore his hand, brushing the dirt off my legs as I stand. Even though I’m terrified of losing control, he has a point. Right now, we don’t know if he’s dissipating my power because I’m holding back, or because he’s actually stronger than me.
But the thought of unleashing more power and directing it at Sin makes my stomach twist.
“I need you to attack me with your power, not just lust. Try to hurt me.” I try to infuse the words with confidence I don’t feel.
If I’m going to get past my fear of the volatile energy, then I need a damn good reason to use it.
“You’re joking,” he deadpans, unimpressed.
I lift my chin. “No, I’m not. You want me to stop holding back? Then I need you to do the same.”
His controlled expression wavers. “I’m not sure if I can do that. I – I don’t think I can hurt you.”
I swallow, but my resolve hardens. “You’re constantly worried that something is going to happen tome, that I’m going to get hurt. Because you think Leon can get to me.”
Sin nods, and I continue, “I’m afraid too. But I’m tired of living in fear. I want to fight back. So, I’m going to need you to try.”
His brow furrows, clearly conflicted now that I’m throwing his own words back at him. “You really think you can take me?”
I give him a small smile. “I don’t know. But before we fight Leon, we’d better find out.”
He swallows, running a hand through his hair. “Alright, kitten. I’ll try.”
Chapter 53
Vivian’s Point of View
Rule fifty-three:If the voice inside your head is becoming increasingly homicidal, consider telling a friend.
“This goes against every cell in my body,” Sin growls.
He’s backed up a few steps, giving me more time to block whatever he throws at me.
Electricity snaps across my skin, and inside me, more is fighting to break free.
The crowd is silent, as if they can sense that something has shifted and that things are about to get interesting.
I’m sure watching me lose another limb will be very interesting.
