Her sincerity was extraordinary, really. It was what set her apart from everyone else he saw on a daily basis. Even if he hadn't been what he was, the life he was currently leading had jaded much more noble minds than his. How could it not? Nowhere were the lines more blurred between reality and illusion, power and influence. Willow didn't fit into that world. She didn't fit into his world. And yet, here she was.
"I would hope never to burden you with the weight of my secrets, Little Miss. Just know that I am rarely in any danger I can't handle." His smile turned fond as he reached up to brush her hair back from her face again. "You, however, never answered my question — so which one of us is really keeping secrets?" Cole laughed again, but it was far from the booming sound before. He pulled his hand away and leaned forward to lift his teacup. It was still warm, not yet having grown tepid. After he took a sip of the spiced brew, he turned back to his guest. "What is it that you're working toward? Between school and your...research efforts...what is it that you dream of becoming?"