[Her audible sigh had him considering the matter closed. There would be no deal or truce or whatever else between himself and the boy. They'd work it out as Zaunites did, and the collateral damage would likely be worth it. After all, he technically had more to lose with this little dalliance, and he would not take losing the most important thing in his life well. It didn't matter that it likely wasn't a complete win-lose situation; it felt enough like it to provoke a response nonetheless.]

Indeed, he can't invade your mind and twist you up as the other one did. [He finally set down his pen completely on his paper and leaned his head back against his chair.] All boys are nice when they want something. Are you certain he's not playing nice to pull you away from me because I'm the big bad monster and you're the girl that needs saving?