Kaz learned early that manipulating Inej, more often than not, didn't pay off for him. Not only in the moment but in the long term when she founds way to turn it back around on him. Now though it feels worth the risk to do what he has to for her sake.

"I'm aware," he says softly, shifting to glance behind him, making sure there's no one there before his gaze turns back to Inej. He hunkers in a bit closer, his voice low and raspier than usual.

"I've been worse, but I suspect that my time here has helped,' he admits, knowing the ways that Inej and Jesper have helped him are why he's not at rock bottom right now. "Its not how I've considered my death, so I suppose I'm just not going to die here."

Because Kaz Brekker does fully believe he's in charge of that.

He reaches out then, his hand brushing hers so that the slits in the glove's fingertips let his fingers brush the back of her hand. "You?"