From Protector of the Grey House:
Ben stood, moved the chair, and started toward the door. At Vincent’s side he paused, turned back to face Natalia. “Should something unforeseen happen to our leader, lady, do not hesitate to come find me and ask for my protection. It would be an honor to have you as my child.”
Ben bowed to her then turned and bowed to Vincent. He left under Vincent’s hard stare, smiling wide. Vincent watched him leave then came into the bedroom to lean against the bedpost. He stared at his human, wondering at her expression. It was unreadable. Or maybe he just didn’t want to guess at her thoughts. She lay in bed, her robe almost open, the comforter hiding her legs. Her hands were folded on her lap. Her posture suggested a child waiting for a teacher’s attention; her expression was all woman: defiant, deadly, beautiful and confident.
Cat Stark 