Athos

He has not had a mothering touch in years. It is now a surprise to him, almost a visceral shock how her words assault him. They are unexpected, now, and make him feel a strange sensation that he might equate with gratitude, were Athos inclined to understand precisely what he is feeling. He finally nods slowly, thinking that perhaps despite the ache in his head, he must be a good guest.

"Tell me of you?" he suggests. "And your husband's business, of course," he allows, inviting propriety upon the situation.