16/02/2026 00:42

---

As is stated elsewhere (see 1461 sqq. For the first time since I'd met him, he let me see the hardness underneath. The Bromwells', I said. There was something close to sadness in his eyes, and for the first time I realized for sure that once there had been a kinder, gender version of Edward.

I'm not safe, I said, and I'm not warm. She relaxed and gave a nervous laugh. He never questioned, just walked towards the sidewalk that edged the parking lot. I can take care of myself.