To be honest, that's why I'm telling you this now -  so you can go back to him."

"Thank you."

I'd never put as much feeling into those two words as I did then.Shaking her head, she started to walk back down the stairs, then stopped and turned, looking up at me.

"I'm not the one you should be thanking."

* * *

Somehow, I ended up at Gideon's apartment.

I don't remember leaving Parker's studio or telling Clancy where to take me.

I don't remember checking in with the front desk or riding the elevator up.

When I found myself in the private foyer facing Gideon's door, I had to stop a moment, unsure of how I'd gotten from the bleachers to that point.

I rang the bell and waited.

When no one answered, I sank to the floor and leaned back against the door.

Gideon found me there.

The elevator doors opened and he stepped out, stopping abruptly when he saw me.

He was dressed in workout clothes and his hair was still damp with sweat.

He'd never looked more wonderful.

He was staring at me, unmoving, so I explained, "I don't have a key anymore."

I didn't get up because I wasn't sure my legs would support me.

He crouched.

"Eva? What's wrong?" "I ran into Detective Graves tonight."

I swallowed past the knot in my throat.

"They're dropping the case."

His chest expanded on a deep breath.

With that sound, I knew.

Dark desolation shadowed Gideon's beautiful eyes.

He knew that I knew.

The truth hung heavy in the air between us, a near-tangible thing.

I'd kill for you, give up everything I own for you .

but I won't give you up.

Gideon fell to his knees on the cold, hard marble.

His head bowed.

Waiting.

I shifted, mirroring his kneeling pose.

I lifted his chin.

Touched his face with my hands and my lips.

My gratitude for his gift whispered over his skin: Thank you .

thank you .

thank you.

He caught me to him, his arms banded tight around me.

His face pressed into my throat.

"Where do we go from here?" I held him.

"Wherever this takes us.

Together."