"It's good to keep some secrets. The things only you know are the most powerful," he said, watching Jack climb. Something in him tightens, warms with anger and the need to protect when Jack talks about being small, about big bad buys.

"I would not let anyone hurt you, Jack," he said, looking at the boy with his one good eye as he did. He was not only saying it; he meant it. Bull had a soft spot for children.

"I grew up in a place called Par Vollen, in a world very different from this one. I only arrived here a few days ago."