he 'd believed her when she said she loved him . security almost called off the mission . `` would you be mad if i wanted you to follow me back to town ? '' it took a long time before he could gather his nerves to step toward the red room . you need to get used to that . '' he turned on the kettle and looked out the window above the kitchen table . then she gasped a little and drew back . he shoved his fingers through his hair , looking hunted . 