The latter part of her reply was far more interesting than the former, for which he could tell they would only butt heads on repeatedly. His utter revulsion for what he was couldn't be lifted by a single sharp remark, and in any case he didn't see how enjoying what he was would solve anything, either. The middle ground didn't appeal.

That wasn't pertinent any longer, however. What she had said resonated with him in a way he didn't like at all, sent cold shivers down his spine before he could rein the reaction in.

"The soul of an angel," he repeated quietly. What are the odds? Without even moving, his entire demeanor had shifted from defensive to attentive. "I can understand why you'd desire that remain secret." He knew the consequences.