Forced Proximity

He doesn’t know the strength it took to survive—how every breath I take feels like defiance in the face of a world that’s tried to crush me over and over again.

“I’m sorry, but I’m no hero,” I reply, my words cold as ice. “I wouldn’t risk my life for a stranger.” It’s a lie, but it’s a lie I need her to believe.

“My name is Varyn Blackmoore,” I rasp, my voice hoarse and strained. “ That power that’s been put inside you? It’s mine—and I’m going to need it back.”