That was unfair. She had been gearing up for a long lecture, and here he was, acting like a kicked puppy. It should have been impossible for a car to even give off that impression, but Jolt was doing it admirably.

"It's my job." Naomi drew her knees up to her chest, resting her chin on top of them. "It's dangerous, and it would have hurt, but I could have taken it, and your identity wouldn't have been put at risk. If it still seems like I need to be protected, then that's my fault, not yours. I should be the one apologizing."