Once he's sure that Daniel is focused on his task, Armand allows that last vestige of a mask to fall away. He trusts his fledgling, and he adores him. He loves him desperately, and yet, there are layers of protection that Armand has in place that he's not sure he'll ever be able to truly do away with.

Not until he's convinced that he's safe, that someone could want him as he is.

Every day with Daniel, he feels it's getting closer. "That's it," he coaxes, voice soft and soothing. "Like honey on your tongue," he teases, unable to help himself. "And like a warm bath for me."