In "Pure" by Jennifer L. Armentrout, the protagonist experiences a jarring moment of intimacy when Aiden pulls her close, causing a whirlwind of emotions. This unexpected connection leaves her feeling overwhelmed and conflicted. The tension between them highlights the struggles of their world, particularly for those who come from pure-blood backgrounds, where expectations can often lead to harmful actions without consideration for others.
Aiden's internal conflict is illuminated through his words, reflecting the pressure he feels as a pure-blood. He acknowledges the difficulty of resisting the darker tendencies that come with his heritage, revealing his desire to remain different and protect the protagonist. This struggle emphasizes the broader themes of choice, consequence, and the fight against one’s ingrained nature in the world they inhabit.