she let go of him and waved her arms in front of her . the crush of metal suddenly stopped . it seemed to be on a recorded loop . you might have to do it while i 'm sleeping , though . '' he could swear that the scales embedded in the fine fabric shone in the sun . if anyone asked what i was most afraid of , what terrified me , stole my breath , and made my life flicker before my eyes , i would say three little words . 