He released a long, tired breath.

She wanted to comfort him, but knew he would reject her touch. He’d always rejected comfort or solace.

He was stronger than anyone had a right to be.

When he met her gaze, it sent a raw, sensual shiver over her.

“If they are to serve you and the gods, Artemis, they have things they need.”

“Such as?”

“Armor for one. You can’t send them out to fight without weapons. They need money to procure food, clothes, horses and even servants to watch over them in the daylight while they rest.”

“You ask too much for them.”

“I ask only for what they need to survive.”

“You never asked any of that for yourself.” She was hurt now at that fact.

He never asked for anything.

“I don’t need food and my powers allow me to procure everything else I need. As for protection, I have Simi. They won’t last alone.”

No one lasts alone, Acheron.

No one.

Not even you.

And especially not me.

Artemis lifted her chin, determined to have him by her side no matter the consequences. “And again I say to you, what will you give me for what they need?”

Acheron looked away, his gut tight. He knew what she wanted and the last thing he wanted was to give it to her. “This is for them, not me.”

She shrugged. “Fine then, they can do without since they have nothing to barter with.”

His fury ignited deep at her casual dismissal of their lives and well-being.

She hadn’t changed at all.

“Damn you, Artemis.”

She approached him slowly. “I want you, Acheron. I want you back like you were before.”

He inwardly cringed as she cupped his face in her hand. They could never go back as they had been. He’d learned too much about her since then.