She saw Wilder tense up. There was no doubt she had fallen for Amelia, but then everyone did fall for her sweet and innocent nature.

“Congratulations, Principe,” Wilde said through gritted teeth.

Byron sat back in her chair and silently gazed at Wilder, making her shift uncomfortably where she stood. Byron had always been secure in her calm authority and used intimidation when required, but now that she had Amelia’s blood in her veins, she was even more confident.

“Wilder, the Principessa’s security is my top priority. Not only is she my partner, she is also the future of this clan.”

“Yes, Principe.”

Byron tapped her cigar into the ashtray and walked around to sit on the desk in front of Wilder. “I want you to be her guard, and work solely for her.”

Wilder appeared panicked, probably at the thought of working 24/7 for the woman she cared about but could not have. “Are you sure that’s a good idea, Principe? Wouldn’t one of your vampires be better?”

“No, they wouldn’t. You are uniquely qualified. You watched over her with Bhal for six months, so you know her habits, her way of doing things, her journey to work.”

“She’ll be going back to Grenville and Thrang?” Wilder said with surprise.

Byron crossed her arms. If it was up to her, Amelia would never leave her side, but she had made it clear this morning that she would be carrying on with her normal life. Byron had promised her wife she would be an equal partner in this relationship, and if she wished to return to work, then she had to allow it until things became too dangerous. Amelia had given her everything and Byron wasn’t going to do anything that would jeopardize that.

“Yes, against my better judgement, but she insists, so I have to make her as safe as possible.”

Wilder looked down at her shoes and nodded solemnly. Then she said, “I don’t want to do it, Principe. I’m needed with Bhal—”

Byron decided to take a softer tone. She patted her on the shoulder and said, “I know why you don’t want to do it. You care about Amelia. During the time you watched over her, you developed feelings for her.” Wilder looked almost frightened. “Don’t worry, I’m not going to kill you,” Byron joked.

Wilder didn’t seem to take the joke. She was still as tense as a board.

“Wilder, that’s why I want you to head up Amelia’s security, because there can be no better guard than one who cares about her. Besides, Amelia trusts you and is comfortable with you. That is my decision. Are we clear, Warrior Wilder?”

“Very clear, Principe.”

* * *