A Light in the Flame: A Flesh and Fire Novel

That one decent and kind bone I have in me belongs to you.”

“You were never a ghost to me.”

“And I know you are trying to keep the embers safe—”
“Not just the embers.” He deflected my blow. “You.”

“Do you need me…” His gaze flew to mine.

We all need someone to watch over us.”
Heat crawled up my throat. “Do you?”
“Desperately,” he whispered.

“And there’s…more important stuff to deal with.”
“I’m dealing with the most important stuff right now.”

“Your safety is worth everything.”
“Even the Shadowlands?”
His now-swirling eyes had never left mine, but, somehow, he’d moved without me even realizing, crossing the space between us. “ Yes.”

“Your presence will cost me nothing.”

“But if he—” I started.
“I won’t let him lay a finger on you,” Nyktos swore,

Ash was quiet for some time. When he spoke again, his voice was barely above a whisper. “Thank you.”
My eyes opened. “What are you thanking me for?”
“For just… Just for being you,” he said.