Xhanes shut the door behind him and the latch clicked like a verdict. This was the first time she had ever wanted to ignore Xhanes’ presence, but this time it stuck like a stubborn stain.
Xhanes was taken aback when Phaeryl didn't even turn around. Her eyes had been glued to the fire instead, on the log that had split down the middle an hour ago and hadn't fully caught since. His attention was caught by the ale in front of her that had gone flat; she hadn't touched it in a while.
"You've been sitting there long enough to grow roots," Xhanes’ voice sounded deeper than monotone.
"I've had a lot to think about."
He crossed the room and dropped into the chair across from her with the strident sound of his boots scraping the floorboards. The firelight cut hard shadows into his face, making
