“Why…? Why have you never said before?” “This ruse with Islington is advantageous to your not being left behind, but an actual guardian?” Hawkes shook his head. “That isn’t what you need.” “What is it you think I need?” He looked as if it were obvious. “To remain undaunted.” My heart stilled a moment, then tumbled back into its regular rhythm. Hawkes returned my stillness only with a fixed gaze. I cleared my throat. “Why you?” Pain? Apprehension? Caution? What was it that cast the shadow behind his eyes. “Hawkes?” “He trusted me.” “Clearly. He trusted you with my life!”
UNDAUNTED
