Damian didn't stop walking until they were far enough from the center of attention.
Only then did he slow.
Only then did his grip on her hand loosen, just slightly.
But he didn't let go.
Not completely.
Ava's pulse was still uneven, her thoughts tangled between what had just happened… and the man standing beside her.
He turned to face her.
His gaze sharp and focused.
"What did he say to you?" Damian asked.
No greeting or hesitation.
Ava blinked, trying to gather her thoughts.
"Scott?" she asked softly, though she already knew.
His jaw tightened faintly.
"Yes."
She hesitated for a second, then exhaled.
"He said… I should thank him," she began carefully. "For getting me away from everyone."
Damian's expression didn't change.
"He said people were watching. Judging," she continued. "That even you couldn't protect me from everything."
A flicker passed through his eyes at that, but it was gone almost instantly.
Ava noticed.
