[ He listens while she talks, and leans into her. His head turns, lips pressing softly against her neck and brushing the skin. He doesn't interrupt.

At the last part, he sees it. He sees Alina in his mind, bathed in light, using her power to kill his people. Just like the Darkling.

His eyes close, and his hands tighten on her. ]

I would.

[ The words are brushed, whispered, against her neck. Nikolai lets his cheek drop to her shoulder. ]

I will. If ever you become the thing you hate, I'll kill you. I won't hesitate, any more than I did with Barnaby. I give you my word.

[ His hand brushes her jaw, before sliding down so that both arms can pull her tightly against him. ]

You won't need it. You have his flair for drama, but not his pure insanity.

You killed because you had to. Perhaps you were tempted, but you resisted. He has never cared to. I won't have to kill you.

[ He breathes, and manages a laugh - a rough one. He makes his voice turn light. ]

Don't be so dramatic.