Her answer yielded an odd, slightly knowing look from Cade-- he recognized that response, though he knew better than to comment on it, or draw any attention to it whatsoever. He did, however, feel himself relax just a touch more; she understood, and she hadn't condemned him or shamed him further.
As he passed Nerva on his way to the door, Cade felt a strange surge of respect, and-- was it protectiveness?-- for the woman. He resolved to give her no further trouble, tonight or ever, as long as he could help it.