Xenia was overwhelmed by Caleb's imposing presence and immediately fell silent.
What did he mean by that? Could he really be a man of unfathomable power and danger?
But Caleb's thoughts were always inscrutable. He stared at Xenia for a full two minutes before suddenly laughing, his tone carrying a note of admiration. "Still, the fact that you'd risk offending me for the sake of another man shows you're strong and loyal. The man you defend so fiercely is indeed blessed with great fortune."
He paused, his smile taking on a wicked edge. "...How about letting me be the man you defend in the future? I imagine it would feel quite wonderful."
Yet Xenia's body was beginning to show signs of weakness.
Perhaps it was the lingering effects of the prolonged drowning; her head was throbbing more a
