Daniel had already sat up, watching her closely. "That tone," he said. "I don't like that tone."
She offered him a reassuring look, though her mind was already racing. "Collin-"
"About Collin?" he asked, his jaw tightening.
She nodded. "Looks like he's finally awake."
Daniel ran a hand through his hair and swung his legs off the bed. "So much for not leaving the bed today."
She smiled faintly. "Temporary separation."
He glanced at her. "You're coming back."
It wasn't a question.
"I am," she said firmly. "I promise."
He stood and stepped closer, his hands settling on her waist, grounding both of them. "Be careful," he murmured. "And don't let him corner you."
She reached up, straightening his collar with a small, affectionate gesture. "I can handle myself. You married someone stubborn, remember?"
His lips curved despite the tension. "Unfortunately."
She leaned in and pressed a quick kiss to his lips—soft, reassuring, deliberate. "I'll call you."
