Kael looked at Asher like he was seeing him for the first time. "Did someone... Asher, did someone hurt you? Is that why you're so guarded? Why you're so private about your personal life?"
"I should get back to work," Asher said
"Wait. Please." Kael caught his arm gently. "I know you don't trust me. I can see it every time you look at me. And I don't know why, but—I want you to know that I won't let Damian hurt you. Professionally or otherwise."
"You can't make that promise. You're not there when I'm alone with him."
"Then you won't be alone with him. I'll make sure of it." Kael's grip tightened slightly, urgent. "And if he crosses a line—any line—you tell me immediately. I don't care if it's uncomfortable or if you think it'll cause problems. You tell me."
"Why do you care so much?"
The question seemed to catch Kael off-guard. "I... I don't know. I just do."
"That's not an answer."
