“For without a measure of arrogance, how can one attempt the impossible?”

“For without a measure of arrogance, how can one attempt the impossible?”

“I-" Irsa took a careful breath to steady her words. " I have felt alone for most of my life. Until you." She placed the shell on his chest. " But I promise I won't feel alone anymore. I will never forget." She stood on shaky feet. "I will always remember." "I love you Rahim al-Din Walad . Thank you for loving me in return.”

“She was drowning in sandalwood and sunlight. Time ceased to be more than a notion. Her lips were hers one moment. And then they were his. The taste of him on her tongue was like sun-warmed honey. Like cool water sliding down her parched throat. Like the promise of all her tomorrows in a single sigh. When she wound her fingers in his hair to draw her body against his, he stilled for breath, and she knew, as he knew, that they were lost. Lost forever. In this kiss. This kiss that would change everything.”

“For without a measure of arrogance, how can one attempt the impossible?”

“In your honesty, I saw a reflection of myself. Or rather, of the man I longed to be. So I failed you. I didn’t stay away. Then, later, I thought if I had answers, it would be enough. I would no longer care. You would no longer matter. So I continued failing you. Continued wanting more. And now I can’t find the words to say what must be said. To convey to you the least of what I owe. When I think of you, I can’t find the air to b r e a t h e.”

“I suspect she will be like air. Like knowing how to breathe.”

“It was a quiet taunt...a poisoned glass of wine, meant to intoxicate and exsanguinate.”

“Without risk, life is far too predictable”

“That's quite gallant of you. After you've ignored me for the better part of a week, like a boy half your age with twice your charm.”

“Such misplaced faith in a boy with a murderous past and a girl with treacherous intent.”

“What are you doing to me, you plague of a girl?” he whispered.“If I’m a plague, then you should keep your distance, unless you plan on being destroyed.”“No. Destroy Me.”