'I would rather understand my own limits in the comfort of my home than discover them elsewhere,' said Laurent. He could not count Makedon as a learning experience, not when the man had poured and clapped Laurent's shoulder with an equal ceaselessness. Yet his posture had clearly made Damen uncomfortable, and Laurent made an effort to sit deeper amongst the cushions. He had asked Damen here because he trusted him - it would not do to make him feel a threat.

He took another sip of his wine, then a bite of bread. 'Will my ache tomorrow?' he asked, a faint line between his brows for the memory.