Asher slowly shifts closer, resting his hand on top of the robe, over Nathaniel's foot.

"It will never happen again," he promises, softly. "And I will try." He ducks his head, closing his eyes, a moment of relief that Nathaniel is going to forgive him.

"I am unused to love given so freely," he admits, barely a whisper. "I have spent centuries building walls around me, protecting myself. It is difficult to do otherwise."