He stares pointedly at me. “I’ve seen the expression pass over you—the look I had on my face for fifteen months—when you speak about my daughter.” He raises a firm palm, halting my objections. “I’m not suggesting anything happen now. She’s got her work cut out for her and preparing her and protecting her must always be the priority. I don’t question that keeping her safe would be your priority though. You’ve become like a son to me over these years, earned my respect and my trust. So, if something should take shape, you have my blessing.”
