Page 191

“We did.”

“And?”

I finally looked at her. She had moved closer while my back was turned—not near enough to touch, but close enough that the scent of her cleanser cut through the room’s dry air.

My voice came out flat. “This conversation is unnecessary.”

“That usually means you don’t want to have it.”

“Yes.”

She tilted her head. “At least you’re honest.”

I said nothing. Talia studied me, and slowly the amusement faded from her face, replaced by something more serious.

“Veyr.”

I waited.

“Darev said something.”

My jaw tightened instinctively. “He said many unnecessary things.”

“He said your body might recognize me.”

I forced my voice level. “It is unconfirmed.”

“I know.”

“He also said recognition does not create a bond.”

“I know that too.”

I looked away again, my hand flexing at my side. “And it gives me no claim over you.”

Talia’s expression shifted almost imperceptibly. “You mean you have no claim over me.”

For a fraction of a second, I faltered. “No.” Then immediately, firmly, “That is what I meant.”

A slow breath escaped her. “Good.”

My eyes returned to hers, holding. “I would not claim you without your consent.”

Her gaze didn’t waver. “Even if whatever is happening between us is biological?”

“Yes.”

“Even if it gets stronger?”

“Yes.”

She took another step closer—still not touching, but near enough that I could see the faint pulse at her throat. “And you won’t decide it means I belong to you.”

The answer came without hesitation. “No.”

It was simple, this part. Whatever stirred beneath my skin belonged to me; whatever lived inside hers belonged to her. Recognition could indicate compatibility. Possibility. Nothing more.

A bond required both.