'I struck him with a goblet,' said Laurent. While not regrettable, at home it had felt too gauche to revel in, but now that Aimeric was here and again alive, Laurent allowed himself to enjoy the memory. 'As much for insulting Auguste as interrupting, but it was satisfying all the same. You were displeased.'

Laurent reached up, almost in need of stretching to reach Damen's curls, which he carded fine boned fingers through. 'For Jord's sake, not his.'