That seemed to satisfy her more than the rest had. She settled back against the pillow but her eyes didn't leave mine. "Fine." Then her mouth lifted slightly. "But I still know you're using this to avoid answering me."
"I never said I wasn't."
"No," she said. "You were honest about that part."
"Don't force it," I told her. "Think my name but don't push the words. Let them move through the bond instead."
"That sounds vague."
"It is."
Her lips curved slightly. "Very helpful."
"It'll make sense once you feel it."
The room settled around us and I felt her focus shift inward, careful at first, then stronger. The bond responded immediately but no words came through. Her expression shifted with concentration.
"Don't fight it," I said quietly.
"I'm not."
"You are."
"You can't see insid
