give me a life time of promises (open)

"That's a myth, actually. It's about the same strength as before" Loren's response was automatic and without thought. Flushing a little with embarrassment, he shrugged. "Sorry. Habit." Clearing his throat, he gave Maea an apologetic look. "Point taken. At this rate I'll be able to bounce back from tragedy in no time." The quip fell flatly and humorlessly between them, but at least it was an attempt. Chuckling, more nervous than amused, he stroked Astra's fur. "Maybe that's what I should tell Frey next time they call me dull. 'Other people don't think my grief is boring!'" It was a weak attempt to find some silver lining out of all this. LOREN Not quite an open book