[ Koroleva opens her own eyes at that, looking between Korol and Nikolai in sudden surprise.

Alina's own eyes are wide as she stares at him. That's the most shaken she's ever seen him. The most human she's ever seen him.

And because of her? Because he saw himself killing her? She asked him once if he'd put a bullet in her head if she ever lost control. He promised her he would here. He promised Baghra at home he would. She never imagined killing her would do this to him.

There's a sickening feeling in her stomach at that realization. She can't ever lose control. She can't ever do that to him.

She hugs him tightly again, reaching up to press her lips to his in a fierce and slightly messy kiss. ]

I didn't know... I didn't even guess... [ She says softly when she finally parts, not leaning away as she touches his cheek. ]

I'm sorry.

I saw the Darkling kill you in my training. On my last session. I saw him kill you and I was powerless to stop him.