[ He had hoped that she would not notice how he very nearly mentioned something from the not-so-distant past that, as far as he is concerned, is best left there. And so he decides to remain silent on that particular topic unless she should press the issue. Instead, he comments on her second question. ]

There is. It would seem that no amount of additional carpets or wall hangings can improve it, so it seems to be simply part of the manor's construction. Unsurprisingly, perhaps, as it is hardly a new structure.

[ Still, it is part of the home, and so he has not neglected its upkeep in favor of other rooms that do not contain a draft. When she glances up at him, he gazes downwards at her, not even attempting to hide the love he has for her in his eyes. And when she curls in closer, he also wraps his arm around her more, hoping to provide her with all the comfort that she needs. ]

Ah. [ A shadow crosses his face then as he ponders this and all that it implies. ] What else did he- No, I will not make you recount it. I am certain that hearing it once was enough.

[ He is fully aware that she will not blame him or withhold her affections and her care from him because of anything he said or did while he was tempered, and yet he fears that whatever Thordan made him say still could cause irreparable damage to their relationship. Of course, he does not pull away from her as her hands slide into place on both sides of his face.

But was I fighting enough? The question springs to mind but he cannot bring himself to voice it. ] And yet I still provided him with the very fuel he needed to cause you hurt; perhaps not in that specific instance, but certainly in others. I imagine he had full access to my mind and to my memories and private thoughts, all of which he could certainly have used to wound you.

[ And he is certain that he did, which is something he will take full responsibility for even if he could have done nothing to stop it at the time. ]