?"
Liam considered answering with another insult.
Instead, he decided the question deserved a proper response.
"Sheila is commander. The year needs a functioning hierarchy. Undermining that because I dislike being restricted would be counterproductive."
Charlotte watched him.
He continued, "Her orders are reasonable. I have no reason to interfere with them at the moment."
"At the moment," Charlotte repeated, catching the qualification immediately.
"Yes."
She laughed under her breath.
"You really do choose your words carefully."
"Someone has to."
Charlotte leaned back against the stone.
"I think you trust Sheila more than you want to admit."
Liam glanced at her.
"I consider her judgment reliable."
"Which sounds suspiciously like trust."
"Professional confidence."
"Oh, sweetheart." Charlotte placed a hand against her chest. "From you, that practically sounds like a declaration of love."
"You have an unfortunate understanding of affection."
