He thinks of Darcy’s look of disdain, the damnation they so easily point towards Grace. Of Security’s refusal of any kindnesses, however awkward and inelegant and brutal, that she can think to offer.

That they are both his. And that they know better than to force a choice from him.

“I don’t know. We’ll have to see. Not comforting, I know, I’m sorry. But it sounds like you’ve got a few who would still be on your court.”

He pauses to stifle a yawn. “But, if it isn’t that you still think about them that bothers you…? Is it what you wanted? That bothers you, I mean.”