" … I’ve always been unique.”
“Yes, well, it is no wonder you and Kell attract. Both unique. Both … a bit …” Suddenly, conveniently, the language seemed to fail her.
“Mean?” offered Lila.
Calla smiled. “No, no, not mean. Guard up. But tonight,” she said, fastening a silver brim-veil into Lila’s hair, “you bring his guard down.”
Lila smiled, despite herself. “That’s the idea. "

― Victoria Schwab , A Gathering of Shadows (Shades of Magic, #2)