Imani went to lay her head on his shoulder once more, attention straying fro the paper as she smiled, though it was a bittersweet smile. His words bringing unbidden memories of the past. Of people who hated her enough to hurt her.
"I wish that was true... but there are people who hate me. Who have hurt me." As if it were possible, she curled into Neculai more. Seeking more comfort in his embrace to calm the black waters within once more. To hold them at bay. To different degrees all of his siblings could do so, just by being there with her. She viewed it as the special power of their bonds with each other. That Neculai held this 'ability' proved further to her that he was good and a part of her family.
"But they can't hurt me here. Not with our siblings and my friends. Not with you here."