Galen clenched his jaw. He leaned his head back briefly against the stone wall, closing his eyes. The image was formed without permission, and he hated himself for it. He wished it were him with her. Wished she were calling his name instead.
He paced back and forth a few steps, torn. Part of him wanted to knock, to interrupt, to remind her he existed. The wiser part of him knew that would only make things worse.
After a few seconds, he made his choice. He turned and walked away.
Galen had nearly reached the end of the corridor when he almost collided with Lucien coming from the opposite direction.
Lucien stopped. "Is she asleep?"
Galen shook his head. "No."
Lucien nodded. "Alright. I'll wish her goodnight and head out."
Galen lifted a hand and placed it lightly against Lucien's chest, stopping him. "Not tonight."
Lucien frowned slightly. "Why?"
"She's with Theron."
Lucien's expression changed instantly. His jaw tightened as his eyes met Galen's. Galen dropped his hand.
