"It is as it is," he replies mildly. The situation can't be changed, and it's being dealt with as best it can so there's hardly a need for apologies and less of one for Steve to tell him what a find Darcy is. He's well aware of that already, thank you.

Arching an eyebrow, he smiles bemusedly, as if he's watching a toothless puppy attempt to growl at him. Well-meaning and somewhat cute, if entirely futile. "An interesting ultimatum." The smile fades into something less amused and more annoyed. "And unnecessary. She is my daughter, and I will act accordingly. I can't do much about her choice of company nor employ at present, but beyond that... She is under my more than considerable protection."