[ In some ways, he is still working out how to bring together the two parts of his life: the Lord Speaker and the man who wishes to be Alkaid's husband. There must be a middle ground, but he would be lying if he said he was still uncertain how best to bring that about.

As for Estinien's suggestion, Aymeric looks up with an expression suggesting surprise. ]

That she might spare some thought for me, I would not dispute, as my own travel to her just as often. But would she truly wish for me to come along? I certainly miss her presence, but perhaps if I were to join her, I would only be a distraction from her duties. Given the nature of what she does, I imagine she can ill afford to be distracted. Still, I would ask such a question of her, even if I expect to be rebuffed.

[ And, even as he says that, a fear arises that she might only say yes to his request out of obligation, and not because it is what she truly wants. ]

If you must go, I will not have it said that I detained you, Estinien.

[ He can hardly fathom the notion of being so incredibly selfish as to delay his friend, even if it is only until morning. ]