"So you made me interrupt my training and come all this way just to accompany you to this damn symposium?"
At 2:42 that afternoon, in the back seat of a speeding black car, Sellviya's expression soured the moment John finished explaining where they were going. "John Maslow, you bastard, do you have no respect for my time? What do you take me for? Your servant?
"Or your bodyguard?"
Before Sellviya could get any angrier, John's next words stopped every complaint in her throat. "It's a formal symposium, after all. I'll feel better if you're there with me, Via."
Meeting Sellviya's startled gaze, John smiled faintly and pressed on. "I know you don't like appearing in public like this, Via. But I've always thought that, as commander of the Red Dragon Legion, you'd make a fine role model for the young ladies at those noble academies."
"I know this is sudden, but would Her Esteemed Majesty the Red Dragon Queen grant me this selfish request?"
"—Hmph. Since you put it that way, I suppose I can agree!"
Suppressing a smile, Sellviya lifted her chin and answered with feigned aloofness. Then she caught John's I knew it expression. Feeling as though he had her completely figured out, she flushed with embarrassment, glared fiercely at the bastard, and added, "But there won't be a next time. My time is precious. I can't waste it on childish little affairs like this, understand?"
"Yes, yes. I promise I'll let you know in advance next time. No more springing things on you!"
"Hmph!"
Once John had given her his solemn promise, Sellviya felt she had recovered some dignity and let the matter drop. She leaned back with studied calm and turned her face away, seemingly to avoid his gaze.
But John was secretly watching her every