Catherine watched as Sebastian stepped aside and gestured forward with a small, respectful bow, guiding Bernice toward the exit.
Bernice looked back at her pitifully, like a scolded puppy being led away for a bath she didn't want.
"I want her treated well," Catherine said quietly. "I just want her safe. That's all."
She didn't want there to be any misunderstanding. This wasn't punishment. It wasn't confinement.
It was protection.
Bernice had a reckless heart. And reckless hearts bled first.
Sebastian inclined his head. "Of course, Dr. Preston." His voice was steady, composed. Then his gaze shifted to Bernice… and lingered.
"…I'll treat her as precious cargo."
"Cargo?" Bernice lifted her chin immediately, bristling.
