Whistler knew she was right. And worse, he knew he was being an ass. For the first time in centuries, the man was completely out of his depth. No one had access like the brunette did.

"Fine. I take it back. I apologize." There was sincerity in his voice. "For the record, I left the hospital because I was sure you were just gonna hit me again when you woke up."

He leaned against his Impala, feeling smaller. "And I don't mean you are goin' to the dark side, but you saw it. It's possible. I'd really like that not to happen."

There was a weighty silence between them, which he finally broke. "Say the word, and I'll leave ya be."