"What was it?" Ash asked quietly. I had the impression he was bracing, as if he was scared of what my answer would be and didn't want to show it.
"I had… forgotten about your vow," I said softly.
Ash's face went tight. "You forgot that I vowed to you that I would get you out of this safely and marry you!?"
"No, Ash…" I stepped forward and took his hand. "I'd forgotten your vow as a Knight Defender. That… that you will never… engage with whoever is your ward."
His shoulders slackened, but his expression didn't change. "Zara, we've discussed this—"
"I just… when I was walking back here with all those Knights and the women I just… it hit me the danger you were in being here with me. And being willing to take me away." I wiped my suddenly clammy hands on my skirt. "He'll kill you, Ash. If he learns of… us. If he learns that you've already kissed me. Even if he only learns you have feelings for me!"
"I'm well aware of the risks—"
