~ ZARA ~
For a moment David looked sympathetic, but then something clouded his expression. "I imagine the way you feel when thinking about the other Select is something like how I feel to know you're cloistered in here with a man who is clearly very deeply attached to you."
Neither of us spoke for a moment.
"Is this going to be a problem?" I asked him quietly.
David's jaw twitched, but he shook his head. "Unfortunately, as uncomfortable as it may be, the truth is, he's the only one I can be certain would protect you with the same… diligence that I would. I have given him greater authority so there will be no circumstances under which you are not shielded, even if I am not there."
I blinked. "Wait… you talked to Ash?"
His lips thinned at the casual way I referred to Ash. "Yes, of course. He's your Defender—and he saved you. I needed to commend him... and warn him."
"And you're going to keep him close to me?"
