Finnian knelt before Elena in the throne hall two days later, his sword presented flat across both palms.
"I request formal appointment as personal guard to Logan Westwood," he said, loud enough for the gathered court to hear clearly.
Murmurs rippled through the lords present, several exchanging surprised glances. Garrick, seated near the front, watched the proceedings with carefully controlled stillness, though Logan caught the faint tightening along his jaw.
"The request is granted," Elena said. "Rise, Finnian. Your service to this crown will be remembered."
Finnian rose, taking his place beside Logan with the formal bearing of a man who understood exactly what he had just committed himself to, and Logan felt something steady settle in his chest for the first time in weeks, having so
