Behind closed doors

Trying desperately hard to focus on whatever she might be talking about, Tristan answered hesitantly, "What is that exactly?"

Looking straight into Tristan's face, Seraphina began speaking softly. Her voice grew louder only halfway through, growing steadily higher until eventually reaching a crescendo, filling the silence surrounding them with words almost impossible to ignore.

"'I wanted my knight-errant to rescue me.' As pitiful as it may sound now, I have always imagined a brave man saving me. Someone who is strong yet kind. The very image of strength and honor itself. And here..." She paused momentarily, giving Tristan ample opportunity to react according to plan.

He waited patiently, observing her reactions minutely to ensure any changes wouldn't occur unexpectedly.

'Just two more points, and I can be crude with my actions if needed.'