Chapter 63: Men leave

He turned then, hard eyes fastening on mine. “Don’t, Nell. Don’t make me into a hero or build some romantic fantasy around me. I’m only here because you wouldn’t let me die. Once we can leave, I’m no longer your responsibility, and I’ll be out of your life.”

The words stung, and I swallowed hard. “I thought we were friends. Your words, remember?”

His answering laugh was harsh. “I can fool myself into believing that sometimes. Doesn’t make it right. I’m a bad bet, and I always have been. I ruin everything I touch. So don’t go gazing at me with that look in your eye. I’m a self-serving bastard. I use and consume. Do yourself a favor and accept that now.”