Lucian
I stood and moved closer to Mara. “What you’ve said is valid. More than valid. And you’re right—we don’t have time to waste. But you’re not going with us.”
Her brows shot up, lips parting in disbelief.
“I said you could be involved in military matters, and I meant that. But as a strategist. As a consultant.” I reached for her hand and held it gently. “You are not leading an assault. Not now. Not when you’re carrying our child.”
She pouted, frustrated by the gentle firmness of my refusal.
I gave her a smile, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “Mara, we need you here. You’ll run command from the mansion. Secure communications. Coordinate with Rowan and headquarters. Hold the heart of the operation steady while we hit Rockville.”
She hesitated, then finally gave a reluctan
