( There are times he gets a faint, bitter taste in the back of his mouth. Much like the waters abandoned by all the oceanids that fled. Except it is not exactly bitterness as a person might describe it, but loneliness. She is, all in all, the last of her that remains. Would it be far-fetched to say waters also feel as she feels?

It is also familiar to bring sweets to her like this. It is like living in a fragment of their past. All the days he thought were good are now stained with her suffering. How can he apologize for never realizing it?

His gaze is more alert the moment the door opens. She never needs studio lights to pop life into any frame. She does so naturally, and seamlessly, even when she's not putting on an act. That doesn't mean he's entirely off the hook, he has no idea he's walking into yet another lie. A much more...Digestible one. )

I did say I would arrive early and as promised I had Sedene order all the cake flavors. These should last you a day or two if you pace yourself.

Oh.

( He catches sight of the painting when he enters. )

It's beautifully made.

( She didn't have to move out...But he understands. )