The door slid open, revealing Evren and Willow couldn't help but notice the way he smiled at her before glancing around to check if anyone else was inside.
"You look tired," she said as he stepped in.
"I am," he admitted, stretching his arms before sinking onto the bed when she tapped the space beside her. "I'm guessing you've heard about the competition."
"Well, I'm participating in it," Willow said, her voice light but sure.
Evren's eyes widened. "Really?" Then he sighed, shaking his head with a wry smile. "Of course you are."
At that, Willow laughed. "I'll survive. And I'll protect you." She winked, and Evren couldn't help smiling remembering when she'd once acted as a literal human shield for him. He didn't want that happening again.
"I'll protect you too," he said softly.
