Chapter 22

• “Claire, let’s go,” Kenzo said softly, his tone calm yet firm enough to leave no room for argument.
• “But…” Claire’s voice trailed off as her lips pouted slightly. She looked up at Kenzo with wide, pleading eyes that shimmered with unspoken disappointment. She wanted him to stand up for her to prove, once again, that she was the delicate flower he always promised to protect.
• Kenzo understood her silent plea immediately. His lips pressed together, and for a moment, a faint crease appeared between his brows. The silence that followed was heavier than any scolding could have been.