The answer was simple and almost childish, yet somehow, the way Zenith said it made the room quiet. She looked down at her own hand for a moment.
"When I was among demons, touching someone was rarely gentle. Hands were used to strike, restrain, tear, claim, or kill."
Tessa's teasing expression faded, replaced by a rare serious expression, perhaps intrigued to hear sentimental words from someone of Zenith's strength.
"When Hubby holds my hand, he does not do it because he is afraid I will run away, or because he wants to control me. He does it because he wants me beside him." Her smile softened. "I like that very much."
Mira's expression became gentle. "That is a beautiful answer."
Zenith smiled, "Thank you."
Tessa muttered, "Now anything the rest of us say is going to sound stupid."
Mira's gaze immediately slid toward her. "Then perhaps you should go next."
Tessa froze. "No."
"Yes."
"No."
Mira smiled. "Tessa, please cooperate."
"I said no."
