Bernard looked down at their joined hands, his thumb brushing slowly over her knuckles. The tension in his shoulders eased, and the corner of his mouth lifted.
"You have a good heart, Silverheart." He held her gaze. "One that's always willing to see the best in people."
He let out a quiet breath.
"I hope you're right about her. I'd rather be the suspicious one than watch someone take advantage of your kindness."
He leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead.
"We'll do it your way." A faint smile touched his lips. "But if my instincts tell me something is off, don't fight me on it. Promise you'll trust me enough to let me deal with it."
He gave her hand one last squeeze. "That's all I'm asking."
Elara's smile deepened. She rose onto her toes and cupped his face, her thumbs brushing lightly against his cheeks.
"I promise." Her voice was soft but certain. "If your instincts tell you something is wrong, I'll listen."
