Only Valek would consider an attempt on my life a fascinating diversion.

I’ll have you know that the most delicate flowers often produce the strongest scent when crushed.

Pretty stupid,” I called after his retreating form. “To give up before all possible solutions have been tried.

I offer my heart, entrust my soul and give my life to you.

Some Queen of the Pipes, I thought. I'd believed I was better than a mindless drone. But I was the mindless one, hiding away. Even now I referred to them as if I didn't belong.

You missed the point completely! You're acting..." The word stuck in my throat. He didn't hesitate to say it. "Jealous?" When I nodded, he continued. "Now you're missing the point. It isn't jealousy. It's fear." "Fear?" Not the emotion I expected. "Yes. Fear. I'm afraid you'll be hurt or killed. I'm afraid I won't be able to protect you. I'm afraid I'll lose you to another man.

I doubt I would ever be missed. Noted absent, charged delinquent, reprimanded but never missed.