“I just rely on natural talent," said Adrian, strolling up to the start of the Dragon's Lair. "When you have such a wealth of it to draw from, the danger comes from having too much.”

“I have to get back there." I said to Adrian. "Into that door."He arched an eyebrow. "What, like sneaking in? How very black ops of you. And oh, you know— dangerous and foolish.""I know." I said, surprised at how calm I sounded as I admitted that. "But I have to know something, and this may be my only chance.""Then I'll go with you in case that guy comes back," he said with a sigh. "Never let it be said Adrian Ivashkov doesn't help damsels in distress.”

“Adrian ordered a martini, earning disapproving looks from his father and me.'It's barely noon,' said Nathan.'I know,' said Adrian. 'I'm surprised I held out that long too.”

“Of course it's jealousy," said Adrian nonchalantly. "What do you expect? The former love of your life comes back—from the dead, no less. That's not something I'm really excited about. But I don't blame you for feeling confused.""I told you before—""I know, I know." Adrian didn't sound particularly upset. In fact, there was a surprisingly patient tone in his voice. "I know you said him coming back wouldn't affect things between us. But saying one thing before it happens and then actually having that thing happen are two different things.""What are you getting at?" I asked, kind of confused."I want you, Rose." He squeezed my hand more tightly. "I've always wanted you. I want to be with you. I'd like to be like other guys and say I want to take care of you too, but...well. When it comes down to it, you'd probably be the one taking care of me."I laughed in spite of myself. "Some days I think you're in more danger from yourself than anyone else. You smell like cigarettes, you know.""Hey, I have never, ever said I was perfect. And you're wrong. You're probably the most dangerous thing in my life.”

“I need you,ʺ said Lissa.ʺI hear that from women a lot,ʺ said Adrian.”

“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.”

“What's up?" I asked.You tell me," he said. "You were the one about ready to start making out with Adrian."It was an experiment," I said. "It was part of my therapy."What the hell kind of therapy are you in?”