give me a life time of promises (open)

Nodding at Maea’s explanation, Loren smiled weakly. It didn’t reach his eyes. ”Seems like a small price to pay." Absently, he stroked Astra's fur, trying to settle his increasingly troubled thoughts. "I know they're perfect. It's not that. I just..." his voice trailed off with an exasperated sigh, and he glanced at the woman with sad eyes. "Getting their attention isn't the problem. I can do that. And I am respectful when I do, I promise." Shrugging, he crossed his arms. "And I have been blessed by them, so I suppose I shouldn't be complaining at all." Shaking his head slowly, he leaned against a wall. "Never mind. It's not important." Indeed, he'd already retreated behind his mental walls, and his expression was blank again. LOREN Not quite an open book