Dorian stopped Carys anyway. He didn't force her to stay; he only stood at the end of the hallway, his voice so hoarse it barely sounded like his own.
"Give me five minutes."
Carys checked the time.
Rhys lowered his head and asked her, "Do you want me to stay with you?"
She shook her head.
"No."
Rhys stepped back to a spot not far away.
He didn't rush her or interrupt.
Watching him, Dorian felt a heavy ache in his chest.
Rhys hadn't answered for her.
He hadn't refused for her either.
He simply stood somewhere Carys could see the moment she turned around.
When Dorian spoke, his voice was low.
"I went to the city clerk's office."
Carys said nothing.
"I know you said there was no need, but I went anyway."
He paused.
"I sat there alone until they closed."
He paused again.
"T
