He looks at her. He was not lying. He could see it in her eyes. She was confused. The confusion seemed to flicker in those beautiful and expressive eyes of hers. He strokes her hair soothingly. Just once...just like a friend would do. He looks at her. "I won't be hurt. I won't be tangled. I am strong enough, though I may not look it, to take on the world to protect my friend. I know it may be hard to believe but I am a martial artist. I believe in Bushido. The samurai code of honor. There is no honor in harming a woman." He shakes his head. "You are worth protecting. You may not see it but I do. I see the worth and beauty of the woman who has become my friend." he says with a gentle smile. He looks at her. "Yes. I will. I will protect you." He shrugs a bit. "It does not matter. Friendship is not based on how long you have known a person. Friendship is based on who came into your life and never leaves your side."<br/><br/>He says truthfully. "I will never leave your side as a friend." He says honestly. Smiling at her warmly. He shakes his head. "I might not know but I have a good feeling based on your reaction that it means a great deal to you." He smiled again. "You are very welcome." He looks around. "Tell me what other things interest you. Maybe I can help you get some crafts or things to do in your spare time." He pulls out a whistle. "This is a special whistle. It was hand made back in ancient times. Passed down from my family to protect those who need it. Though you won't hear the sound. All you need to do is whistle if you are ever in danger. If you ever need me and I am not near. I will come running. To be there to protect you." He puts the whistle that is on a beautiful silver chain over her head. "Keep it with you always my friend. It is a gift."<br/><br/><a class="postlink" href="http://www.larkinam.com/litmimages/sam006.jpg">[ img ]</a>