Page 34 of The Orc's Protection
“Enough.” His voice is quieter than usual. “Your defense was… unexpected.”
I glance around the empty hallway, then step closer to him. “Did you think I wouldn’t defend you?”
“Few humans challenge their leadership on behalf of orcs,” he says, a hint of wonder in his tone. “Particularly when it risks professional consequences.”
“Well, get used to it,” I tell him fiercely. “Because I meant every word.”
Something shifts in his eyes, a warming, a softening that makes my heart race. “You honor me, Riona Walker.”
The formal phrasing somehow makes the sentiment more powerful, not less. For a moment, neither of us moves, the air between us charged with everything we can’t say or do in this school hallway.
“We should be careful,” he says finally, though the reluctance in his voice is obvious. “I will not be the cause of damage to your career.”
“My career is important,” I acknowledge, “but so are my principles. And so are you.”
He inhales sharply at my declaration. His massive hand moves slightly toward mine before he catches himself, returning to his professional stance.
“Student arrival in seven minutes,” he says, his formal tone belied by the warmth in his eyes. “You should prepare your classroom.”
“I should,” I agree, making no move to leave.
“Principal Winters will be watching for compliance with the new directives,” he adds.
“I’m sure she will.”
“Professional boundaries must be maintained during school hours.”
“Absolutely.”
Neither of us moves for another long moment.
“Tonight,” he says finally, voice dropping to a rumble that sends heat spiraling through me. “After your planning meeting. Whenever you’re finished.”
Something about the openness of it—no clock, no deadline, justwhenever—makes the warmth in my chest spread wider than any specific time could. “It might run late. These things always do.”
“I know.” His eyes hold mine. “I’ll wait.”
He nods once, all business again except for the intensity in his gaze. “Until then, Ms. Walker.”
“Until then, Mr. Vraag.”
As I walk to my classroom, I can feel his gaze following me, a tangible weight of attention that should be intimidating but instead feels like being wrapped in his coat again—warm, secure, protected. I notice that I don’t flinch from the word anymore.
Chapter Thirteen
Riona
The Monday planning meeting runs until half-past six.
The text message from Vraag arrives the moment I walk through my door.
Security patrol complete two hours ago. May I come by now?
His formal phrasing makes me smile. Whatever this is between us—courtship, relationship, cultural experiment—he still communicates as if he’s filing an official report. Yet there’s something endearing about it, a glimpse of the careful consideration he brings to everything.
I would love company. I’ll unlock the door for you.
Though I’ll come as quickly as possible, please don’t leave the door unlocked for me!!!!
