Chapter 44: Definitely not letting that happen.
Adrian felt a wave of overwhelming relief and happiness. He looked down at Emma, who was still sitting rigidly in his lap, watching the scene with a complex, unreadable expression. He leaned close, his lips near her pointed ear.
"It's okay," he whispered, his voice for her alone. "I know this isn't easy for you. There's no need to worry. I'm well aware you always show you care in different ways."
He felt her small, green body tremble slightly against his. Then, slowly, she turned her head to look at him. The usual defiance and cunning in her emerald eyes were gone, replaced by a soft, hesitant warmth. It was a look he had never seen on her before. A small, genuine smile touched her lips, so fleeting he would have missed it if he hadn't been watching so closely.
Adrian was caught off guard by the sheer vulnerability of it. His own smile widened, and he reached up, gently patting her head.
