I'll admit, it's nice to hear Derek go all over protective even if it makes some stagnant sort of longing stir in my gut. My laugh feels a little awkward and I shake my head.

"He won't," I tell him, fiddling with the apron tie at the small of my back. "I mean-- well, I guess he could. Jack's amazing and wonderful, but he's still human, so. I just hope I don't hurt him. He's had enough stuff to deal with lately; the last thing I want is to make anything harder for him."