I placed my hand gently on Alistair's arm, careful not to disturb the bandages. Despite his pallor, he looked better today. The color was slowly returning to his face, though worry lines still creased his forehead.
"I've told you before, I won't leave. This is my home now," I said firmly.
Alistair sighed, wincing slightly as he adjusted his position on the bed. "My Lady, I'm merely suggesting that perhaps you might wish for some distance from these... unfortunate events."
"These 'unfortunate events' involved someone trying to murder you," I replied, unable to keep the edge from my voice. "And I won't pretend it didn't happen."
He looked away, embarrassed. "It's unseemly for the Duchess to be so involved in a servant's—"
"Stop," I cut him off. "You're not just a servant. You're family. Alaric considers you his true father, and I..." I hesitated, then plunged ahead. "I care for you deeply as well."
A small smile flickered across his face. "You are very kind, My Lady."
