Chapter 39 [2/2]

"I do, Percy. I want you by my side, always. But I'm not asking because of me," I said. Why was he so forgiving? I told him I loved him, and he accepted it as if I had never hurt him. "Why do you even. . .Why do you even love me? I've hurt you. Even if you say it wasn't intentional, I still did. For that, I don't think I deserve your love."

My gaze was pinned on his hand. He lifted his head from my shoulder, and his grip loosened.

"Who deserves it, if not you?" Percival asked. His voice was firm. "I will always love you. No matter what you do or who you have to become. You'll always be the girl I love."

I could feel him staring at me from behind, but I kept myself occupied.

"More than love, do you trust me? When I told you that nothing happened between me and Cadmus. Do you believe it?" I asked.

"Every word," he said without hesitation. "I believed you when you said you wouldn't take him back. I don't want you near him, even if it's only for show or as part of the plan. I've already