His eyes were worn and had dark rings around them, and his face was drawn and tired. His clothes were wrinkled and she could see spots where they were...soiled, probably by one of them as they got sick. He sat back in the chair and she could see him wince as he did, his body obviously was retaliating after a long night in what had to be a very uncomfortable hard back chair. After finishing their meal, Don took the plates and dishes downstairs before returning. ‘I think the worst is over, so I’m. You thank us. Good. But we thank you. We honor you for your service to us. The members of our clan speak of you and your sacrifice. It is only fortunate that you are still here. And still you are here tonight to help us more. You speak of the dangers of this team you will form and you are correct. There will be danger. You are wise in designating only unmated males as potential candidates for this team. These two were chosen from all the others. You are wise, Alexa. Mated males should be with. "What are we making?" You are making one of your favorites, chicken and dumplings." Me?" Yes, it's the best way I could think of to keep you busy and to takeyour mind off your troubles." She was actually smiling!"Oh," was all I could manage. I had never cooked with Mom before."All right, while that is cooking let's make desert. How does pineappleupside down cake sound?" Sounds great!"Again I was the one to make it. She directed and watched as I carefullymeasured everything. About an hour later. ’ He turns to me, fresh tears in his eyes as he grips my arm. ‘I mean, my father was, he was…he was great to me, Nightwing. He sent me to the best school in Amallhia, he…he’s the reason I have an Elvish citizenship, he…’ The human chokes back a sob, and I suddenly find myself at a loss. I’ve never had to comfort him before – well, besides maybe having sex with him when he seems scared or nervous, if only to make sure he does what he has to. (And also because I’m always horny.) But for some.