"I know you didn't want me to get hurt." Nicasi covered Mallin's hand with his own to reassure him. "The Creature is a liar and a predator, just like Ciprain. I knew it was using you. It's a monster. And you were a victim, too. I accept your apology for everything else, but an apology for what the Creature did to me isn't necessary."
Mallin clutched Nicasi's fingers even tighter. "But I've always treated you like nothing…all because you love my brother when I wanted to hate him. I've been a monster, too." His breath snagged on his words. "How could you protect me the way you did…like I deserved it? How could you be so willing to give your life for me after all the pain I've caused?"
"You think I would let the Creature hurt you just because you were a massive pain in the ass for so many years?"
