And the moment you do that, you give your enemies a weapon."
"I protected her," I said quietly.
"Yes," he agreed. "And that is where the conflict lies. Because if you had not intervened, I would be disappointed in you as a man."
He stepped closer.
"But because you did intervene…"
He paused.
"…I am disappointed in you as a leader."
The words landed like a punch to the ribs.
But he wasn't finished.
"Still," he said, voice dropping lower, more honest. "Between losing control out of selfishness, and losing control out of rage for someone you care about…" His jaw tightened. "I prefer this version."
My brows pulled together. "You're not… angry?"
"Oh, I am furious," he said smoothly. "But not for the reason you think."
He rested one hand on the back of my chair.
