I mumbled, “Because you are my… Guest,” and she gave a small laugh. She chuckled and said, “Ahh… but I recall the other night you calling me your prisoner and not your valued guest.” I grinned a little since I did remember that as well. I questioned her back, pretending to be innocent, “Doesn’t sound like something I would say now, does it?” She slapped me across the shoulder. She wasn’t a prisoner here, and my only reason for keeping her around was selfish, so I had to tell her that she was free to leave or stay herself. “But you need to know that you are my Guest in this mansion. You aren’t a prisoner and although I rather you not, you are free to go whenever you would like,” I sighed. I was astonished when she asked, “You want me to stay?” The only thing that was true was that I wanted her to stay because I needed her around and my heart burned for her. “Yes, I think the people around have gotten used to your company,” I said. Her eyes searched mine, hoping for more. It was comfort
