His Intentions

"But don't worry, I attempted to kill you and you attempted to kill me. I suppose we are even now. So go back inside, Islinda. You shouldn't be out here at this time," he commanded, his tone filled with menace and authority.

Islinda shivered, momentarily tempted to obey his command, but the defiant fire inside her burned brighter. She shook her head firmly. "No."

Aldric raised an eyebrow, surprised. "What did you just say?"

Islinda's voice grew stronger as she spoke, her tone unwavering. "No," she repeated, a little louder this time, growing braver by the second. She defiantly stared him in the eyes. "You tried to kill me, and that's something I cannot easily forgive. I can't even stand the sight of your face right now. How can you be so calm about attempting to take my life? So no, I don't want to be under your protection anymore. I want out of here. I don't want to see you."