Aug. 18, 2024, 8:45 p.m.
Adrian Ivashkov, the captivating and complex character from Richelle Mead's Vampire Academy and Bloodlines series, has left an indelible mark on fans with his wit, charm, and introspective musings. Whether he's delivering a sardonic one-liner or delving into the depths of his own psyche, Adrian’s words resonate deeply with readers. In celebration of his unforgettable presence, we have meticulously curated a collection of the top 150 Adrian Ivashkov quotes. Join us on this nostalgic journey through some of his most memorable and impactful lines, capturing the essence of a character who balances vulnerability and bravado with unparalleled finesse.
1. “I'm like a fine wine. I get better with age. The best is yet to come.” - Richelle Mead
2. “Who is he?""An idiot, said Adrian. "Makes me look like an upstanding member of society.” - Richelle Mead
3. “From behind Lissa, I heard Christian say, "Worst. Timing. Ever." Adrian studied Lissa and then looked at Christain sprawling on the bed on the far side of the suite. "Huh," Adrian said, letting himself in. "So that's how you're going to fix the family problem. Little Dragomirs. Good idea." Christian sat up and strolled toward them. "Yeah, that's exactly it. You're interrupting official Council business.” - Richelle Mead
4. “Adrian opened his mouth, undoubtedly ready with some inappropriate and mocking comment. Lissa gave him a sharp headshake that kept him quiet. "Aren't there any, I don't know, sleeveless options?"The saleswoman's eyes widened. "No one has ever worn straps to a funeral. It wouldn't be right.""What about shorts?" asked Adrian. "Are they okay if they're with a tie? Because that's what I was gonna go with."The woman looked horrified.” - Richelle Mead
5. “Boy is he pissed," said Adrian."Do you blame him?" asked Christian. "He just lost memerbship in the evil mastermind club. His brilliant plan fell apart, and now his daughter's missing when he thought she was somewhere safe."Adrian stayed pointedly silent.” - Richelle Mead
6. “You said you were a victim. That's why...that's why ultimately, you and I aren't matched for each other. In spite of everything that's happened, I've never though of myself that way. Being a victim means you're powerless. That you won't take action. Always...always I've done something to fight for myself...for others. No matter what.” - Richelle Mead
7. “This was the last thing I expected. You destroy my life and then feed me some inspiratonal philosophy.” - Richelle Mead
8. “I need you,ʺ said Lissa.ʺI hear that from women a lot,ʺ said Adrian.” - Richelle Mead
9. “Yeah, that’s exactly what I want. To help my girlfriend get her old boyfriend back.” - Richelle Mead
10. “What's going on?' he asked, looking from face to face. 'I was having a good dream.''I need you,' said Lissa.'I hear that from women a lot,' said Adrian.Christian made a gagging sound, but the faintest glimmer of a smile crossed Eddie's lips, despite his otherwise tough guardian-stance.” - Richelle Mead
11. “My mother wasnʹt sleeping with anybody. She doesnʹt even sleep with my father.” - Richelle Mead
12. “Hey, he's awesome. A little unstable, but awesome. We got along great." Adrian opened the door to the building we were seeking. "And he's a badass in his way too. I mean, any other guy who wore scarves like that? He'd be laughed out of this school. Not Abe. He'd beat someone almost as badly as you would. In fact..." Adrian's voice turned nervous. I gave him a surprised look."In fact what?""Well...Abe said he liked me. But he also made it clear what he'd do to me if I ever hurt you or did anything bad." Adrian grimaced. "In fact, he described what he'd do in very graphic detail. Then, just like that, he switched to some random, happy topic. I like the guy, but he's scary.” - Richelle Mead
13. “What are you, Rose Hathaway? Are you real? You're a dream within a dream. I'm afraid touching you will make me wake up. You'll disappear.” - Richelle Mead
14. “You forget: I have an addictive personality. I'm addicted to you. Somehow I think you could do all sorts of bad things to me, and I'd still come back to you. Just keep things honest, okay? Tell me what you're feeling. If you're feeling something for Dimitri that's confusing you, tell me. We'll work it out.” - Richelle Mead
15. “ARE YOU CRAZY?" I ASKED. He gave me the same wordless look he always did when I asked that question.” - Richelle Mead
16. “Do you go see her?" "No," I said, refusing to acknowledge that I'd just seen Lissa last night. "That's not my life anymore." "Right. Your life is all about dangerous vigilante missions." "You wouldn't understand anything that isn't drinking, smoking, or womanizing." He shook his head. "You're the only one I want, Rose.""Well, you can keep feeling that way, but you're going to have to keep waiting." "Much longer?" He asked me."I don't know." Hope blossomed on Adrian's face. "That's the most optimistic thing you've told me so far.” - Richelle Mead
17. “Hey, have you ever heard of the Alchemists? " "Sure, " he said."Of course you have. " "Why? Did you run into them? " "Kind of. " "What'd you do? " "Why do you think I did anything? " He laughed. "Alchemists only show up when trouble happens, and you bring trouble wherever you go. Be careful, though. They're religious nuts." "That's kind of extreme," I said. "Just don't let them convert you." He winked. "I like you being the sinner you are.” - Richelle Mead
18. “So, explain this," Avery said, "You just, what, hang around the Academy all day? Are you trying to redo your high school experience?" "Nothing to redo," said Adrian loftily. "I totally ruled my high school. I was worshiped and adored—not that that should come as a shock." Beside him, Christian nearly choked on his food. "So. . .You're trying to relive your glory days. It's all gone downhill since then, huh?" "No way," said Adrian. "I'm like a fine wine. I get better with age. The best is yet to come.""Seems like it'd get old after a while," said Avery, "I'm certainly bored, and I even spend part of the day helping my dad." "Adrian sleeps most of the day," noted Lissa, "So he doesn't actually have to worry about finding things to do." "Hey, I spend a good portion of my time helping you unravel the mysteries of spirit," Adrian reminded her. "And," he added, "I can visit people in their dreams."Christian held up a hand. "Stop. I can feel there's a comment coming on about how women already dream about you. I just ate, you know." "I wasn't going to go there," said Adrian. But he kind of looked like he wished he'd thought of the joke first.” - Richelle Mead
19. “Hey, Ivashkov! Open up. " Avery argued. She kept pounding on the door and yelling, and finally, Adrian answered. His hair stuck up at odd angles, and he had dark circles under his eyes. He'd drunk twice as much as Lissa last night. "What . . . ?" He blinked. "Shouldn't you guys be in class? Oh God. I didn't sleep that much, did I? " "Let us in, " said Avery, pushing past. "We've got refugees from a fire here. " She flounced onto his couch, making herself at home while he continued staring. Lissa and Christian joined her. "Avery sprang the fire alarm, " explained Lissa. "Nice work, " said Adrian, collapsing into a fluffy chair. "But why'd you have to come here? Is this the only place that's not burning down? " Avery batted her eyelashes at him. "Aren't you happy to see us? " He eyed her speculatively for a moment. "Always happy to see you. ” - Richelle Mead
20. “Relax, Jailbait," said Avery. "A drunken kiss is nothing compared to a drunken fall. God knows I've kissed plenty of guys drunk." "And yet, I remain unkissed tonight," mused Adrian.” - Richelle Mead
21. “Whoa." Adrian leapt up and rushed to Jill's side. "You need to let this go. What, are you going to start a fight with some girl?" Reed turned his glare on Adrian. "Stay out of this." "The hell I will! You're crazy." If anyone had asked me to make up a list of people most likely to risk a fight in defense of a lady's honor, Adrian Ivashkov would have been low on that list. Yet there he stood, face hard and hand sitting protectively on Jill's shoulder. I was in awe. And impressed.” - Richelle Mead
22. “Your mom seems like someone who gets her way a lot." Adrian cast a covert look to where Lissa and my mom stood talking across the room. He lowered his voice. "It must run in the family. In fact, maybe I should get her help on something." "Getting a hold of illegal cigarettes?" "Asking her daughter out." I nearly dropped the plate I held. "You've asked me out tons of times." "Not really. I've made inappropriate suggestions and frequently pushed for nudity. But I've never asked you out on a real date. And, if memory serves, you did say you'd give me a fair chance once I let you clean out my trust fund." "I didn't clean it out," I scoffed.” - Richelle Mead
23. “Make me an offer, " I said at last. "Write it up, and give me a point-by-point outline of why you're a good would-be suitor. " He started to laugh, then saw my face. "Seriously? That's like homework. There's a reason I'm not in college. " I snapped my fingers. "Get to it, Ivashkov. I want to see you put in a good day's work. " I expected a joke or a brush-off until later, but instead, he said, "Okay. " "Okay?" "Yep. I'm going to go back to my room right now to start drafting my assignment. " I stared incredulously as he reached for his coat. I had never seen Adrian move that fast when any kind of labor was involved. Oh no. What had I gotten myself into?” - Richelle Mead
24. “So, " Nathan said, attention focused on Adrian, "now that Vasilisa's graduated, what are you going to do with yourself? You aren't going to keep slumming with high school students, are you? There's no point in you being there anymore. " "I don't know, " said Adrian lazily. "I kind of like hanging out with them. They think I'm funnier than I really am. " "Unsurprising, " his father replied. "You aren't funny at all. It's time you do something productive. If you aren't going to go back to college, you should at least start sitting in on some of the family business meetings. Tatiana spoils you, but you could learn a lot from Rufus. " "True, " said Adrian deadpan."I'd really like to know how he keeps his two mistresses a secret from his wife. " "Adrian!" snapped Daniella, a flush spilling over her pale cheeks” - Richelle Mead
25. “I can't believe you've been here all day and didn't come visit. ", Tatiana said."Aw, I figured you had more important things to do than see me, " Adrian told her. "Besides, I quit smoking, so now we won't be able to go sneak cigarettes out behind the throne room together. " "Adrian!" chastised Nathan, turning bright red. It occurred to me then that I could have based a drinking game around how many times he exclaimed his son's name disapprovingly.” - Richelle Mead
26. “Sitting beside Abe was Adrian Ivashkov--my more-or-less boyfriend. Adrian was a royal Moroi--and another spirit user like Lissa. He'd been crazy about me (and often just crazy) ever since we first met” - Richelle Mead
27. “ʺThe contractʹs null and void, by the way.ʺ” - Richelle Mead
28. “I know how devastated you must be to miss me, but leave a message, and I'll try to ease your agony” - Richelle Mead
29. “You can't save everyone, though God knows you try.” - Richelle Mead
30. “Don't worry, little dhampir. You might be surrounded by clouds, but you'll always be like sunshine to me.” - Richelle Mead
31. “I nearly dropped the plate I held. "You've asked me out tons of times.""Not really. I've made inapproprite suggestions and frequently pushed for nudity. But I've never asked you out on a real date. And, if memory serves, you did say you'd give me a fair chance once I let you clean out my trust fund.""I didn't clean it out," I scoffed.” - Richelle Mead
32. “Did you know," he said slowly, "That Victor Dashkov is sitting on your bed?""Yeah," I said. "It was kind of a shock to us too.” - Richelle Mead
33. “Adrian rolled his eyes. "I'm kind of surprised to find you lecturing about underage girls.” - Richelle Mead
34. “Right. As opposed to your cradle-robbing mentor. I don't really see you making much progress with him.” - Richelle Mead
35. “Is Adrian here?”“Who?”“Adrian. Tall. Brown hair. Green eyes.”She frowned. “Do you mean Jet?”“I … I’m not sure. Does he smoke like a chimney?”The girl nodded sagely. “Yup. You must mean Jet.” - Richelle Mead
36. “You’re killing me here, Sage!”“I’m not doing anything.”“Exactly my point.” - Richelle Mead
37. “Hey, a guy can hope. I mean, it’s not impossible that acar full of scantily clad sorority girls might break downoutside and need my help.”“That’s true,” I said. “Maybe I can put a sign out front thatsays, ‘ATTENTION ALL GIRLS: FREE HELP HERE.’”“‘ATTENTION ALL HOT GIRLS,’” he corrected,straightening up.“Right,” I said, trying not to roll my eyes. “That’s animportant distinction.”He pointed at me with the pool stick. “Speaking of hot, Ilike that uniform.”This time, I did roll my eyes.” - Richelle Mead
38. “Not true,” said Adrian. “All guys mean the same thing when they want to ‘get to know a girl better.’ You’re a wellbred young lady, so I understand why you’d be too innocent to understand. Good thing you’ve got me here to interpret.” - Richelle Mead
39. “Micah showed up shortly thereafter and was happy to meet our other “brother.” He shook Adrian’s hand and smiled. “Now I see some family resemblance. I was starting to wonder if Jill was adopted, but you two kind of look like each other.”“So does our mailman back in North Dakota,” said Adrian.“South,” I corrected. Fortunately, Micah didn’t seem to think there was anything weird about the slip.“Right,” said Adrian. He studied Micah thoughtfully. “There’s something familiar about you. Have we met?”Micah shook his head. “I’ve never been to South Dakota.”I was pretty sure I heard Adrian murmur, “That makes two of us.” - Richelle Mead
40. “Being charming is my hobby.” - Richelle Mead
41. “Yeah? Can you draw a skeleton riding a motorcycle with flames coming out of it? And I want a pirate hat on the skeleton. And a parrot on his shoulder. A skeleton parrot. Or maybe a ninja skeleton parrot? No, that would be overkill. But it'd be cool if the biker skeleton could be shooting some ninja throwing stars. That are on fire.” - Richelle Mead
42. “Takes a lot of tries before you hit perfection." He paused to reconsider that. "Well, except for my parents. They got it on the first try." (Adrian)” - Richelle Mead
43. “Sorry, Sage. Last I checked, you aren’t an expert insocial matters...""At least I take action. You? You let the world go bywithout you. You have no spine. You don’t fight back."“You don’t know the first thing about me, Adrian Ivashkov. I fight back plenty.” - Richelle Mead
44. “You look confused," said Adrian.I shook my head and sighed. "I think I'm just overthinking things."He nodded solemnly. "That's why I try to never do it.” - Richelle Mead
45. “Adrian gave me a look that said I was wasting his time. "Because Jet sounds badass.” - Richelle Mead
46. “Mmm. O positive, my favorite.” - Richelle Mead
47. “Jailbait," he declared, leaping up. "You're a saint. A goddess, even.” - Richelle Mead
48. “No, thank you," said Adrian. "These hands don't sully themselves with fighting.” - Richelle Mead
49. “So. Are you guys here to convert me or sell me siding?” - Richelle Mead
50. “Rose and Dimitri moved almost as one entity, like a matched pair of wolfes or lions, both wary and deadly as they studied their surroundings, taking no detail or person for granted.” - Richelle Mead
51. “Happy Birthday."Adrian came to a sudden halt. The words were soft and small, spoken tentatively, but easily discerned by vampire ears. Slowly, he turned around and found Jill Mastrano standing shyly before him.” - Richelle Mead
52. “Everything's about my personal entertainment. The world is my stage. Keep it up- you're becoming a star performer in the show.” - Richelle Mead
53. “My god, Sage. Your eyes. How have I never noticed them? When you stand in the light. They're amazing... like molten gold. I could paint those... They're beautiful. You're beautiful.” - Richelle Mead
54. “Adrian, I'm on a date. Why are you here? On my car?” - Richelle Mead
55. “Sure," said Adrian. "I bet going in there and kicking down the door will change their minds. Take Rose with you, and you guys'll make a really good impression.” - Richelle Mead
56. “Hey show some respect. They’re real people with names. Carla and Krissy” He frowned. “Or was it Missy?” - Richelle Mead
57. “While I'm fine with you two dating and being happy, please try not to break his heart too much when the time comes.” - Richelle Mead
58. “Of course they didn't give us this much, Sage. But I had to make sure I nailed my first assignment. Takes a lot of tries before you hit perfection." He paused to reconsider that. "Well, except for my parents. They got it on the first try.” - Richelle Mead
59. “I tried to be a better person for her– but it was to impress her, to get her to want me. But when I’m around you, I want to be better because… well, because it feels right. Because I want to. You make me want to become something greater than myself. I want to excel. You inspire me in every act, every word, every glance. I look at you, and you’re like… like light made into flesh. […] You have no clue how beautiful you are or how brightly you shine.” - Richelle Mead
60. “Mmm. O positive, my favorite.” “Is it? I thought it was a cabernet sauvignon.” “So it is,” said Adrian, straight-faced. “My mistake.” - Richelle Mead
61. “They’re waiting for you. Go on in.” Adrian leaned close to Keith’s ear and spoke in an ominous voice. “If.You.Dare.” He poked Keith’s shoulder and gave a "Muhahaha” kind of monster laugh.” - Richelle Mead
62. “Why would you do that? Why would you act like you didn't know how to drive?" "Isn't it obvious, Sage? No, of course it isn't. I did it so I'd have a reason to be around you - one I knew you couldn't refuse” - Richelle Mead
63. “You aren't going to go crazy," I said firmly. "You're stronger than you think. The next time you feel that way, find something to focus on, to remind you of who are." "Like what? Got some magic object in mind?" "Doesn't have to be magic," I said. I racked my brain. "Here." I unfastened the golden cross necklace. "This has always been good for me. Maybe it'll help you." I set it in his hand, but he caught hold of mine before I could pull back” - Richelle Mead
64. “I did it because he wasn't fair to you. Because you deserve credit for what you've done. Because he needs to realize you aren't the person he's always thought you were. He needs to see you for who you really are, not for all the ideas and preconceptions he's built up around you." The power in Adrian's gaze was so strong that I kept talking. I was nervous about meeting that stare in silence. Also, part of me was afraid that if I pondered my own words too hard, I'd discover they were just as much about my own father and me as Adrian and his. "It should have been enough for you to tell him who you are - show him who you are - but he wouldn't listen” - Richelle Mead
65. “The greatest changes in history have come when people were able to shake off what others told them to do.” - Richelle Mead
66. “I can pick a lock. How do you think I got into my parents' liquor cabinet in middle school?” - Richelle Mead
67. “I find prostitutes vastly important.” - Richelle Mead
68. “He shook his head. “No. Because there's no one else out there who understands you like I do.”I waited for more. “That's it? You're not going to elaborate on what that means?”Those green eyes held me. “I don't think I need to.” - Richelle Mead
69. “Really, Sage? A date?”I sighed. “Yes, Adrian. A date.”“A real date. Not, like, doing homework together,” he added. “I mean like where you go out to a movie or something. And a movie that’s not part of a school assignment. Or about something boring.”“A real date.” - Richelle Mead
70. “I wrote back with a quick message: How do you know about 24601? I refuse to believe you read the book. You saw the musical, right?I hit send and received a response back from him almost immediately.SparkNotes.” - Richelle Mead
71. “I was astonished to see Adrian watching me, a look of contentment on his face. His eyes seemed to study my every feature. Seeing me notice him, he immediately looked away. His usual smirky expression replaced by a dreamy one. “The mechanic will wait,” he said. “Yeah, but I’m supposed to meet Brayden soon, I’ll be-” That’s when I got a good look at Adrian. “What have you done? Look at you! You shouldn’t be out here.” “It’s not that bad.” He was lying, and we both knew it.“Come on, we have to get you out of here before you get worse. What were you thinking?” His expression was astonishingly nonchalant for someone who looked like he would pass out. “It was worth it. You looked…happy” - Richelle Mead
72. “He froze, and for one moment, we stood locked in time. I could feel the silk of his shirt against my skin and the warmth of his body. The lingering scent of the overpriced cologne he wore floated around me. No smoke for a change. I’d always told him the cologne couldn’t be worth what he spent, but suddenly, I reconsidered. It was amazing.” - Richelle Mead
73. “Nothing he said could change what I think of you. I've had my mind made up about you for a long time... and it's all good.” - Richelle Mead
74. “Isn’t it obvious, Sage? No, of course it isn’t. I did it so I’d have a reason to be around you — one I knew you couldn’t refuse.” - Richelle Mead
75. “Because I can't help doing it," he said with a shrug. "And hey, if I keep loving you, maybe you'll eventually crack and love me too. Hell, I'm pretty sure you're already half in love with me.""I am not! And everything you just said is ridiculous. That's terrible logic."Adrian returned to his crossword puzzle. "Well, you can think what you want, so long as you remember-no matter how ordinary things seem between us-I'm still here, still in love with you, and care about you more than any other guy, evil or otherwise, ever will.""I don't think you're evil.""See? Things are already looking promising.” - Richelle Mead
76. “I wanted someone a little more approachable," I explained."What, like Captain McTropicalShorts back there? Where on earth did you find him anyway?""Just did an Internet search." Feeling a need to defend my research, I added, "He comes highly recommended.""By who? Long John Silver?” - Richelle Mead
77. “Couldn't Lissa have healed that black eye away?""Its a badge of honor. Makes me seem manly.” - Richelle Mead
78. “Adrian stood there leaning against the doorframe, watching me with his heart in his eyes. In my chest, my own heart was breaking. On my cheek, the lily reminded me who I was. ” - Richelle Mead
79. “So far I’m not seeing a lot of difference between me and a carnival con-man.” - Richelle Mead
80. “Why not see which is brighter: your aura or the sun?” - Richelle Mead
81. “He reached out and pulled me to him, one hand on my waist and the other behind my neck. He tipped my head up and lowered his lips to mine. I closed my eyes and melted as my whole body was consumed in that kiss. I was nothing. I was everything. Chills, ran over my skin, and fire burned inside me. His body pressed closer to mine, and I wrapped my arms around his neck. His lips were warmer and softer than anything I could have ever imagined, yet fierce and powerful at the same time. Mine responded hungrily, and I tightened my hold on him. His fingers slid down the back of my neck, tracing its shape, and every place they touched was electric.” - Richelle Mead
82. “Different time, different place,” I said. “Things can change. People can change.” - Richelle Mead
83. “We all screw up. Everyone makes mistakes. That’s what she did. It was bad judgment, that’s all. You don’t cut off the people you love for mistakes like that.” - Richelle Mead
84. “The ghost of a smile flickered across his lips. ‘You’re always the voice of reason. Just try listening to yourself once in a while.” - Richelle Mead
85. “Rose once told me about this poem she’d read. There was this line, ‘If your eyes weren’t open, you wouldn’t know the difference between dreaming and waking.’ You know what I’m afraid of? That someday, even with my eyes open, I still won’t know.” - Richelle Mead
86. “Speaking of Sonya...I was thinking of something earlier. Something Wolfe said.""Why, Adrian. Were you paying attention after all?""Don't start,Sage," he warned.(p 211)” - Richelle Mead
87. “Adrian, you're a genius.” - Richelle Mead
88. “But I’m just going to be out there having a tea party with her cats or whatever it is she has in mind."Adrian” - Richelle Mead
89. “I know how you guys feel about us. I'm not stupid, and believe me, I've tried to get you out of my head. But there isn't enough liquor or art or any other distraction in the world to do it. I had to stop going to Wolfe's because it was too hard being that close to you, even if it was all just pretend fighting. I couldn't stand the touching. It was agonizing because it meant something to me-and I knew it meant nothing to you. I kept telling myself to stay away altogether, and then I'd find excuses… like the car… anything to be around you again.” - Richelle Mead
90. “Of course I can climb it. I'm practically a progidy in PE," I pointed out. "The question is, can you, Mr Smoker?” - Richelle Mead
91. “Besides, when not hard at work with this research, I'm actually conducting a side experiment on how cigarettes and gin increase charisma. As you might guess, the results are looking very promising.” - Richelle Mead
92. “If you went twenty-four hours without cigarettes, I'd drink a can of pop. Regular pop. The whole can."Isaw the glimmer of Adrian's earlier smile returning. "You would not.""I totally would." "Half a can would put you into a coma." Sonya frowned. "Are you diabetic?" she asked me. "No," said Adrian, "but Sage is convinced one extraneous calorie will make her go from super skinny to just regular skinny. Tragedy.""Hey," I said. "You think it’d be a tragedy to go an hour without a cigarette." "Don’t question my steel resolve, Sage. I went without one for two hours today.""Show me twenty-four, and then I’ll be impressed."He gave me a look of mock surprise. "You mean you aren’t already? And here I thought you were dazzled from the moment you met me.” - Richelle Mead
93. “We're going on a, um, windmill tour later this week."If I'd wanted to shut them all up, I'd definitely succeeded. They all looked stunned.Adrian spoke first. "I'm going to assume that means he's flying you to Amsterdam on his private jet. If so, I'd like to come along. But not for the windmills.” - Richelle Mead
94. “He almosted smiled. "There you go again. Why? Why do yo keep helping me?"There were a million answers on my lips, everything from It's the right thing to do to I don't know. Instead, I said, "Because I want to.” - Richelle Mead
95. “Sage?" Adrian lightly touched my arm, and I jumped at the feel of his fingertips against my skin. "You okay?""I don't know," I said softly. "I just thought of something crazy.""Welcome to my world.” - Richelle Mead
96. “You are the most beautiful creature I have ever seen walking this earth.” - Michelle Mead
97. “No, you will listen. For once, you're going to hear something that doesn't fit into your neat, compartmentalized world of order and logic and reason. Because this isn't reasonable. If you're terrified, believe me--this scares the hell out of me, too. You asked about Rose? I tried to be a better person for her--but it was to impress her, to get her to want me. But when I'm around you, I want to be better because...well, because it feels right. Because I want to. You make me want to become something greater than myself. I want to excel. You inspire me in every act, every word, every glance. I look at you, and you're like...like light made into flesh. I said it on Halloween and meant every word: you are the most beautiful creature I have ever seen walking this earth. And you don't even know it. You have no clue how beautiful you are or how brightly you shine.” - Richelle Mead
98. “He tilted his head to the side, still watching me in that same, disconcerting way. “Some things are true, drunk or sober. You should know that. You deal in facts all the time.”“Yeah, but this isn’t—” I couldn’t argue with him looking at me like that. “I have to go. Wait… you didn’t take the cross.” I held it out to him. He shook his head. “Keep it. I think I’ve got something else to help center my life.” - Richelle Mead
99. “We need to get inside. I think my hair gel’s frozen.” - Richelle Mead
100. “Adrian's face was the picture of perfect politeness and restraint, meaning something disastrous was about to happen.” - Richelle Mead
101. “All the while, my mind reeled with what had happened.I have a hickey. I let Adrian Ivashkov give me a hickey.” - Richelle Mead
102. “But what are loyalty and caring really worth?""To me? Everything.” - Richelle Mead
103. “The tension between us kicked up a notch, and I realized that along with our bodies being nearer, so were our lips.” - Richelle Mead
104. “Rose once told me "If your eyes weren't open, you wouldn't know the difference between dreaming and waking."Adrian Ivashkov to Sydney Sage” - Richelle Mead
105. “Adrian Ivashkov wasn’t easy to surprise, but I surprised him then when I brought his mouth toward mine. I kissed him, and for a moment, he was too stunned to respond. That lasted for, oh, about a second. Then the intensity I’d come to know so well in him returned. He pushed me backward, lifting me so that I sat at the table. The tablecloth bunched up, knocking over some of the glasses. I heard what sounded like a china plate crash against the floor.Whatever logic and reason I normally possessed had melted away. There was nothing but flesh and fire left, and I wasn’t going to lie to myself—at least not tonight.” - Richelle Mead
106. “Oh... Adrian, I've got one more favor to ask you. A big one." "Fondue?" he asked hopefully.” - Richelle Mead
107. “I know I’m not supposed to say this, but I love you.” - Richelle Mead
108. “Historically inaccurate.' Adrian gestured at me with his other hand, the one not on my shoulder. "Who the hell looks at you and says 'historically inaccurate'?” - Richelle Mead
109. “Under normal circumstances, you inviting me to the bedroom would be the highlight of my day.” - Richelle Mead
110. “I wanted him. I arched my back, fully aware of how vulnerable that made me and that I was giving him an invitation. He accepted it and laid me back against the table, bringing his body down on top of mine. That crushing kiss of his moved from my mouth to the nape of my neck. He pushed down the edge of my dress and the bra strap underneath, exposing my shoulder and giving his lips more skin to conquer.” - Richelle Mead
111. “He’d moved toward me again. His hands released mine and moved to my waist, and I noticed I wasn’t the only one breathing heavily. He pulled me to him, bringing our bodies together. The world was all heat and electricity, thick with tension that was only one spark away from exploding around us. I was balancing on another precipice, which wasn’t easy to do in heels. I wrapped my arms around his neck, and this time I was the one who drew him closer.” - Richelle Mead
112. “I’m not a warrior or a goddess,” I said at last.Adrian leaned closer. “As far as I’m concerned, you’re both.” - Richelle Mead
113. “You know," he said, "under normal circumstances, you inviting me to the bedroom would be the highlight of my day."I crossed my arms and sat on the bed. I did so out of simple fatigue, but a moment later, I was struck by what I was doing. This is where Adrian sleeps. I'm touching the covers he's wrapped in every night. What does he wear? Does he wear anything? I jumped up.” - Richelle Mead
114. “My nails dug into his back, and he trailed his lips down the edge of my chin, down the center of my neck. He kept going until he reached the bottom of the dress’s V-neck. I let out a small gasp, and he kissed all around the neckline, just enough to tease.” - Richelle Mead
115. “So many details came into focus. The shape of his lips, the line of his neck. “I’m not dangerous,” I breathed. He brought his face toward mine. “You are to me.” And somehow, against all reason, we were kissing. I closed my eyes, and the world around me faded.” - Richelle Mead
116. “I wasn’t aware of just how close he’d moved to me until now. So many details came into focus. The shape of his lips, the line of his neck. “I’m not dangerous,” I breathed.He brought his face toward mine. “You are to me.”And somehow, against all reason, we were kissing. I closed my eyes, and the world around me faded. The noise, the smoke . . . it was gone. All that mattered was the taste of his mouth, a mix of cloves and mints. There was a fierceness in his kiss, a desperation . . . and I answered, just as hungry for him. I didn’t stop him when he pulled me closer, so that I almost sat on his lap. I’d never been wrapped around someone’s body like that, and I was shocked at how eagerly mine responded. His arm went around my waist, pulling me onto him further, and his other hand slid up the back of my neck, getting entangled in my hair. He took his lips away from my mouth, gently trailing kisses down to my neck. I tipped my head back, gasping when the intensity returned to his mouth. There was an animalistic quality that sent shock waves through the rest of my body.” - Richelle Mead
117. “I see how it is,” I snapped. “You were all in favor of me breaking the tattoo and thinking on my own—but that’s only okay if it’s convenient for you, huh? Just like your ‘loving from afar’ only works if you don’t have an opportunity to get your hands all over me. And your lips. And . . . stuff.”Adrian rarely got mad, and I wouldn’t quite say he was now. But he was definitely exasperated. “Are you seriously in this much self-denial, Sydney? Like do you actually believe yourself when you say you don’t feel anything? Especially after what’s been happening between us?”“Nothing’s happening between us,” I said automatically. “Physical attraction isn’t the same as love. You of all people should know that.”“Ouch,” he said. His expression hadn’t changed, but I saw hurt in his eyes. I’d wounded him. “Is that what bothers you? My past? That maybe I’m an expert in an area you aren’t?”“One I’m sure you’d just love to educate me in. One more girl to add to your list of conquests.”He was speechless for a few moments and then held up one finger. “First, I don’t have a list.” Another finger, “Second, if I did have a list, I could find someone a hell of lot less frustrating to add to it.” For the third finger, he leaned toward me. “And finally, I know that you know you’re no conquest, so don’t act like you seriously think that. You and I have been through too much together. We’re too close, too connected. I wasn’t that crazy on spirit when I said you’re my flame in the dark. We chase away the shadows around each other. Our backgrounds don’t matter. What we have is bigger than that. I love you, and beneath all that logic, calculation, and superstition, I know you love me too. Running away and fleeing all your problems isn’t going to change that. You’re just going to end up scared and confused.”“I already feel that way,” I said quietly.Adrian moved back and leaned into his seat, looking tired. “Well, that’s the most accurate thing you’ve said so far.”I grabbed the basket and jerked open the car door. Without another word, I stormed off, refusing to look back in case he saw the tears that had inexplicably appeared in my eyes. Only, I wasn’t sure exactly which part of our conversation I was most upset about.” - Richelle Mead
118. “I also had to come tonight to apologize. If you need to go to Mexico to finish this process off, then I understand. I was wrong to criticize you for it or even imply that I had some kind of say in it. One of the greatest things about you is that in the end, you always make smart decisions. Can’t always say the same for myself. Whatever you need to do, I’ll support you.” - Richelle Mead
119. “And besides . . . I don’t want to leave you. Er, you guys.”He smiled, and it lit up his whole face. “Well, ‘we’ are certainly happy to hear that. Oh, and I’m also happy to watch our darling little love child dragon while you’re in St. Louis.”I grinned back.” - Richelle Mead
120. “Adrian smiled and clasped my hands, taking a few steps toward me. "And as for who you are, you’re the same beautiful, brave, and ridiculously smart caffeinated fighter you’ve been since the day I met you.” Finally, he put “beautiful” at the top of his list of adjectives. Not that I should have cared.“Sweet talker,” I scoffed. “You didn’t know anything about me the first time we met.”“I knew you were beautiful,” he said. “I just hoped for the rest.” - Richelle Mead
121. “It doesn’t matter,” said Adrian, smiling. He rested a hand on my shoulder. “Some things are worth the trouble.” - Richelle Mead
122. “Sage.” He laughed. “I’m into anything, so long as you’re with me.” - Richelle Mead
123. “He was too perfect, despite being one of the most imperfect people I knew.” - Richelle Mead
124. “I love you, and beneath all that logic, calculation, and superstition, I know you love me too.” - Richelle Mead
125. “His eyes were on his heart, completely caught up in his work. 'Just something kicking around in my head. Reminds me of you. Fiery and sweet, all at the same time. A flame in the dark, lighting my way.' His voice... his words... I recognized one of his spirit-driven moments. It should've unnerved me, but there was something sensual about the way he spoke, something that made my breath catch. A flame in the dark.” - Richelle Mead
126. “He shook his head in mock sympathy. "I tell you, Sage. Sometimes I think I am the one who needs to take out the restraining order on you.” - Richelle Mead
127. “I’m still here, still in love with you, and care about you more than any other guy ever will." -Adrian-” - Richelle Mead
128. “I’m going to just go on loving you, even if it’s hopeless.” -Adrian-” - Richelle Mead
129. “Whatever happened to the dragon?"I mustered my primmest tone. "He has a name, you know."Adrian pulled back and gave me a curious look. "I didn't know, actually. What'd you decide on?""Hopper." When Adrian laughed, I added, "Best rabbit ever. He'd be proud to know his name is being passed on.""Yes, I'm sure he would. Did you name the Mustang too?""I think you mean the Ivashkinator."He stared at me in wonder. "I told you I loved you, right?"Yes," I assured him. "Many times.” - Richelle Mead
130. “Adrian suddenly glanced up at me. Our gazes locked, and I felt like he could read my mind. How often did he think about that kiss? And if he really was crazy about me, did he imagine more than just kissing? Did he fantasize about me? What kinds of things did he think about? His lips on my neck? His hand on my leg? And was that leg bare . . . ?” - Richelle Mead
131. “Look, Sage. I don't know much about chemistry or computer hacking or photosynthery, but this is something I've got a lot of experience with." I think he mean photosynthesis, but I didn't correct him. "Use my knowledge. Don't let it go to waste.” - Richelle Mead
132. “I gave him a smile that I hoped was as dazzling as one of his. "I realized I'm in love."Marcus, startled, looked around as though he expected to see my object d'amour in the car with us. "And you just realized this? Did you just have some sort of vision?""Didn't need to," I said, thinking of Wolfe's ill-fated trip to the Orkneys. "It's always been right in front of me.” - Richelle Mead
133. “If I was drunk, I wouldn’t be here at all. And really, this is pretty good for four White Russians.”“White what?” I almost sat down but was afraid the chair might dematerialize beneath me.“It’s a drink,” he said. “You’d think I wouldn’t be into something named that—you know, considering my own personal experience with Russians. But they’re surprisingly delicious. The drinks, not real Russians.” - Richelle Mead
134. “Who knows more about male weakness: you or me? Use my knowledge, Sage.” - Richelle Mead
135. “Do you want me to call you Celery Stick instead of Cupcake or Honey-Pie? It just doesn’t inspire the same warm and fuzzy feelings.” - Richelle Mead
136. “Why on earth would you buy a car like this if you can't drive a stick? There are dozens of cars--new cars--that have automatic transmission. It'd be a million times easier." Adrian shrugged. "I like the color. It matches my living room.” - Richelle Mead
137. “Can't you... I don't. Find a hobby or something?""Being charming is my hobby.” - Richelle Mead
138. “The future of our relationship hinged on advice from a fifteen-year old girl, a probably untrue story from a one-eyed Chihuahua trainer, and me unromantically – yet skillfully – kissing you on top of silverware and china?” - Richelle Mead
139. “I'm done with the pouting," he said. "Done with being moody—well, I mean, I'm always a little moody. That's what Adrian Ivashkov's all about. But I'm done with the excessive stuff. That didn't get me anywhere with Rose. It won't get me anywhere with you.""Nothing will get you anywhere with me," I exclaimed."I don't know about that." He put on an introspective look that was both unexpected and intruiging. "You're not as much of a lost cause as she was. I mean, with her, I had to overcome her deep, epic love with a Russian warlord. You and I just have to overcome hundreds of years' worth of deeply ingrained prejudice and taboo between our two races. Easy.” - Richelle Mead
140. “Metaphors. This was the cost of making out with an artist.” - Richelle Mead
141. “You can think whatever you want, do whatever you want. I'm going to just go on loving you, even if it's hopeless.” - Richelle Mead
142. “The guy that's going to kick your ass for hurting her.” - Richelle Mead
143. “I didn't realize when I brought him back here that you'd inflict more damage." I said, once I'd finished the story."I was defending your honor." Adrian gave me that devil-may-care smile that always managed to both infuriate and captivate me. "Pretty manly, huh?” - Richelle Mead
144. “Sydney: "You can be Jet if you want, but we are not posing as a couple again" Adrian: "Are you sure? Because I've got a lot more terms of endearment to use. Honey pie. Sugarplum. Bread pudding." Sydney: "Why are they all high-calorie foods? And bread pudding isn't really that romantic."Adrian: "Do you want me to call you celery stick instead? It just doesn't inspire the same warm and fuzzy feelings." - The Indigo Spell” - Richelle Mead
145. “Is she for real?” He paused and reconsidered. “Are you for real? Spells? Magic? I mean, don’t get me wrong. I drink blood and control people’s minds. But I’ve never heard of anything like this.” - Richelle Mead
146. “You’re presumptuous and arrogant and a whole lot of other things if you think I’ve changed my mind.” “You see, that’s just it.” There he was again, moving into my space. “I think you like the ‘other things.” - Richelle Mead
147. “Rowena Clark and I had met on the first day of our mixed media class. I’d sat down at her table and said, “Mind if I join you? Figure the best way to learn about art is to sit with a masterpiece.” Maybe I was in love, but I was still Adrian Ivashkov.Rowena had fixed me with a flat look. “Let’s get one thing straight. I can see through crap a mile away, and I like girls, not guys, so if you can’t handle me telling you what’s what, then you’d better take your one-liners and hair gel somewhere else. I don’t go to this school to put up with pretty boys like you. I’m here to face dubious employment options with a painting degree and then go get a Guinness after class.”I’d scooted my chair closer to the table. “You and I are going to get along just fine.” - Richelle Mead
148. “Nothing will get you anywhere with me," I exclaimed. "I don't know about that." He put on an introspective look that was both unexpected and intriguing. "You're not as much of a lost cause as she was. I mean, with her, I had to overcome her deep, epic love with a Russian warlord. You and I just have to overcome hundreds of years' worth of deeply ingrained prejudice and taboo between our two races. Easy.” - Richelle Mead
149. “I didn’t care about anything except her and the way touching her drove me wild, even as her calm and steady presence soothed the storms that raged within me.” - Richelle Mead
150. “Sydney spent a lot of time on my bed these days.Unfortunately, it wasn't with me.” - Richelle Mead