Chapter 21 - Proving a point (2)

"You are right," Vijay said softly. "I would do the same."

"She knows you may never trust her again, never forgive her...and it's killing her. But she would die a thousand times before she lets you come to harm, Vijay." Jags took a deep breath. "She loves you."

Vijay stared at her.

Jags sighed heavily. "I know she likes to pretend that she doesn't have a heart, but..." She shook her head. "She believes you have no interest in her – or well, whatever interest you had in her is gone. She believes nobody can love her. I have seen this before with others. They believe themselves unlovable freaks, and caring to be a disadvantage. So they try to push us away, and yet can't let us go, because they want to keep us safe, too. They will not hesitate to sacrifice themselves, but they will not let the ones they love be sacrificed at any cost."

Vijay remained silent, trying to digest her words.