He was projecting again, and it left a bitter taste in his mouth.
It made him feel a quiet kind of shame.
Nnenna had at least become a friend, if nothing more, to him. And it wouldn't be fair to her if their renewed bond was poisoned by ghosts and grief. She deserved more than to be a stand in for someone he had lost.
He remembered how he had left Lionara months ago without saying a word to her. He had been too wrapped up in his own disappointment and urgency. No farewell. No explanation. Just silence.
Arthur glanced at her again, his expression unreadable.
He didn't know if she would forgive him this time, or if he even deserved it.
"Nnenna," he called out.
The cold edge in his voice was still there, but dulled. Not many would notice the change, but it was there. Subtle. Almost hesitant.
