I nod and budge over on the bed. After the losses they've suffered from Gerard and the Kanima, the Argents have had no reason to keep me on. My parents would have received me back, displeased that I still loathe guns but pleased that I can at least shoot arrows from my bow and bolts from the crossbow. My fraternization with our supposed prey would displease them, but at least I would have skills.

Instead, with their family decimated, Allison and Mr. Argent have kept me on, taken me to their estate to France, and given me a room and bed of my own.

Allison, especially, has given me a sense of safety. Maybe, on good days, a sense of worth.

In gratitude for that, I will do anything they ask.

"Any time, always."