Nikki's point of view. Word: Price.
Looking at his raw, bloodied hands, Jason appeared so guilt-ridden, burdened, that Nikki desperately wanted to comfort him.
I came into this with my eyes open, she wanted to say. It was my own fault.
Or: There is always a price. But he already knew that—it was for that knowledge that he now suffered.
She simply reached over, rested her hand on his. I understand, it said.
She only hoped that the price she would pay would not be too high.