CASSIAN
The morning came with a harsh, gray light.
I heard Julian groan before I saw him move. He stayed under the blankets for a long time, staring at the ceiling. I was already at the table. I had made coffee. Two cups were sitting there, steam rising in the quiet air.
Julian sat up slowly. I could tell his body was sending him the bill for last night. He moved like he was made of glass.
I didn't look at him. I kept my eyes on my own cup.
Julian stood up and walked over to the table. He moved gingerly, as if the floor might give way beneath him. He sat down across from me.
"I'm sorry," he said. It was a simple statement. He didn't try to make excuses. "For hitting you."
I didn't look up. I just stared at the dark surface of the coffee.
"And for, " He stopped. He cleared his throat and tried again. "I'm sorry, Cassian."
"I said things I shouldn't have," I said. My voice sounded thin to my own ears. "I know that."
