"...So they tell me," he grunted, ribs and the lungs beneath protesting as her arms squeezed. But he didn't resist. He knew it wouldn't matter if he did - if Tabris wanted to hug him she was going to - and... it wasn't unpleasant. Burning pressure aside.

It always good to know someone cared. Good to have a reminder that he wasn't what they wanted, he still belonged.

Wrapping an arm around her shoulders, he hugged back.

"But it goes by ways, Tabris. You be careful or I'll have Dorian bring you back just so I can tell how disappointed I am."