Chapter 7 A Broken Promise

Luther couldn't tell what game Cressida was playing. Did she really think hearing him say "I love you" would somehow make it true? He soothed Natasha with a few quiet reassurances, then finally rose and left the hospital room. He motioned Leslie out, then turned to Cressida. His tone was cold as he said, "Nat's only letting it slide because she's forgiving. As for that condition you mentioned, I won't be able to do it. Pick something else." That offhand dismissal splintered the last hope Cressida had been holding onto. Her fingers trembled, nails biting into her palms as she forced the words out. "What gives you the right?" Luther's brow tightened, his voice dripping with scorn. "What makes you think I could ever love you? I told you on our wedding day, aside from the title of Mrs. Strudwick, you get nothing. "To say those words to you would make my skin crawl. You gave your blood like I told you to, and for that, I'll give you anything else. But not this." Cressida held his gaz