[ Once again, his internal conflict shows itself on his face and in his stance. The situation is not made any easier by the exhaustion that is still dogging him, but now is hardly a time for hesitation and questioning himself and his duty. ]

Ah, I see. [ He tries his best to arrange his expression into an impassive one, one that does not reveal how he is already mentally chastising himself for what is, in his mind, his latest failure. That Artoirel had to come looking for him when he failed to appear is nothing short of embarrassing.

He is not cross with her at all, because as always, she only has his best interests in mind. If he is cross with anyone, it is with himself. ] Surely the situation at hand is not so dire as that. [ A fever that has slightly lessened and a cough... Surely these are things that he can weather. ] Perhaps if I made a brief appearance simply to satisfy the other attendees and myself.

[ But evidently, his body has other ideas in mind, and as if to contradict his musings, he finds his earlier unsteadiness returning and he has to reach out for the frame of the bed in order to steady himself.

His lips press together into a thin line as his annoyance and impatience with himself grows, but he knows that she is correct. He is not in any condition to leave this house, let alone this room, and that admission hardly sits well with him. ]

I will return to the bed, but do not go to any extra trouble on my account. The household staff will see to your needs and ensure that you are able to have a time of reprieve as well.

[ He knows that her role as healer and his mate is of the utmost importance to her, but he does not wish to see her use what little downtime she has on waiting on him, when his present state of being is the result of his own decisions. ]

I would be glad for your company as always, but I would rest much easier knowing that your needs are being met.

[ Especially since he is presently unable to do so himself. ]