He looks very carefully indeed for any sign that something might be hiding behind that sincerity -- although what it is he looks for, he doesn't know. Possessiveness? Selfishness? Desire for something he doesn't wish to give? It seems almost laughable in its impossibility. Fever might think herself selfish, but in reality all she done to Pyotr is give and give. He is the only selfish one here.

"Why?" he finally asks, slumping in place as his moment of pique passes away. "Why hurt yourself like that? Why let me hurt you like that? What could I possibly offer you that would make it worth the risk?"