Page 500 - Fourth Wing

The way he looks at me, with the same mix of hope and apprehension

currently flooding my system, gives me absolute life.
“You don’t mean that,” he says, shaking his head.

And there he goes, sucking the life right out again.

“I mean it.”
“If this is about the Imogen thing—”

“It’s not.” I shake my head, the wind catching the curls Quinn spent so

much time on. “I know there’s no one else. I wouldn’t be walking the
parapet in the middle of the night if I thought you were playing me.”

His brow furrows, and he pulls me in closer against the warmth of his

body. “Then what made you even think that? Have to admit, it pissed me
off. I’ve given you exactly zero reasons to think I’m in anyone else’s bed.”

Which means he’s only in mine.
“My own insecurities and the way she looked at you and Garrick

sparring. You might not have a thing for her, but she definitely has one for

you. I know that look. It’s the same look I have when I’m watching you.”
Embarrassment heats my cheeks. I could change the subject or deflect, but

it’s not going to do our relationship—if that’s even what this is—any favors
if I hide my feelings, no matter how weak the irrational ones might make

me seem.

“You’re jealous.” He bites back a smile.
“Maybe,” I admit, then decide that answer is half-assed. “Fine. Yes. She’s

strong and fierce and has that same ruthless streak you do. I’ve always

thought she was a better match for you.”
“I know the feeling well.” He shakes his head. “And you are strong and

fierce and have a ruthless streak, too. Not to mention you’re the smartest

person I’ve ever met. That mind of yours is sexy as hell. Imogen and I are
just friends. Trust me, she wasn’t looking at me, and even if she were…”

He pauses, his hand slipping to cradle the back of my head as he holds us
steady despite the gusting wind. “Gods help me, I’m only looking at you.”