The Villain's Hero
I glanced over my shoulder and saw that it was not Tarra who had entered.
“I’m sorry, Daethie,” Aien stood awkwardly, his shoulders stiff. “Tarra’s…” He cleared his throat. “She’s finding comfort elsewhere. Valerian is staying with Rue and Cara. I just thought I’d see…” He paused. “If you needed anything.”
“I don’t need anything,” I was on the verge of tears and did not want him there when they broke through.
He started to turn, reaching out for the canvas, but hesitated, his profile to me, before turning back and crossing the tent. “I’ll change the wash water for you,” he said and took the bowl with him.