“Not sensitive,” he says softly, almost hesitant. “I think guarded and defensive are better words.” His eyes fill with apologies, not wanting to hurt me like my father does. Ryke doesn’t have the same fear as me, the one where I turn into Jonathan Hale. But for a moment, Ryke must have tasted what it was like to be him. I personally know it isn’t pleasant. After a deep breath, I say, “I can’t help it. I’m always going to be defensive when it comes to Lily.” “We’re her sisters,” Rose pipes in. “Everyone in this room loves Lily and you. We are the last people you should be guarded around.”
