Xander let out another tired sigh and leaned back against the couch. "She ignored me all through breakfast this morning. Then, before she left, she told me she would not tolerate being under the same roof as a man who is being tortured in our home."
Asher let out a deep sigh and rubbed his jaw. "So, she gave you an ultimatum?"
Xander nodded.
Asher studied him for a second before asking, "And what are you going to do about it?"
Xander's jaw tightened slightly. "She will have to understand." His voice was calm but firm. "This isn't about what I want. It's about national security. It's my duty."
Asher nodded slowly, swirling his glass of scotch before taking a sip. "And if she doesn't understand?"
Xander was silent for a moment. Then, he met Asher's gaze and said, "She has to." There was no other way out of this since he couldn't give up his mission.
Asher smirked slightly and lifted his glass. "Good luck with that."