“What if I told you I’m not dead?”
“Bullshit.”
“Oh, because you Immortal jackasses know it all, right?” She raised an eyebrow. “You’re doing exactly what Kris wants you to, Rhyn, going to your death like a lamb.”
“I’m better off as demon fodder. I was doomed when I was born a half-demon.”
“You can’t believe that,” she said, her features turning from irritation to concern. Katie approached him and stopped within arm’s reach, gazing up at him. “Rhyn, you’re better than this.”
Gods, but he could smell her sweet scent! Her large eyes seemed to see right through him. He feared reaching out, in case she slid through his fingers like smoke. He’d lost her in life; he wasn’t going to risk losing her in his dreams. He could imagine closing the distance between them, sweeping her up into his arms, and making love to her on the beach.
The way he should’ve done, before she’d walked into the ocean and killed herself to protect him from a fate he deserved.
“You should’ve let them kill me,” he said in a hoarse voice. “I could die peacefully knowing you were safe, but I’m not worth saving.”
“You’re the only Immortal I’ve met worth saving.”
“Stupid little human.”
She rolled her eyes at him.
“How’s Death?” he baited. “Gabe says she’s a bitch.”
“I haven’t met her yet.”
“Rhyn.”
He snapped awake at the voice. The dream seemed so short, but the sky had begun to lighten on the horizon. The dream faded as he sat up. Toby stood nearby, his young face solemn. The angel looked ready for a journey with his backpack and sturdy boots. Beside him stood Hannah.
“I’m ready,” Rhyn said and rose. He rubbed his stubble-roughed jaw.
“We appreciate this, Rhyn,” Hannah said.
“Voluntarily going to my death? You’re welcome.”
“That’s not what I meant.”
At her hushed tone, Rhyn turned. Hannah held one of the lanterns donated to their exiled party by the Sanctuary. The blond woman was pale and gaunt.
“The Immortals need a home,” she said. “They can’t live scattered around the world.”