Rose's POV

Victor must have sensed the uncertainty in my eyes, for his tone mellowed further. “Don’t fear, I shall be there. With you. For every step of the journey.”

I stood there, staring warily at him. "Victor, I can't have you fighting all of my battles for me."

"Seriously, can't be expecting me?" He showed a fleeting, ironic smile. "I'm asking."

I bit down hard on my lip, my heart aching at the way he'd spoken.

Before I could speak, there was a soft knocking on the door. ...