[It’s actually something of a wonder Barrow isn’t already drunk, but perhaps it can be chalked up to his current unwillingness to be seen in public.]

Right, then. [It’s defeat and relief in one; he won’t argue, too glad that someone is being friendly to him. Turning back momentarily, he sets down the one cat and encourages the other to take its leave by shrugging his shoulder toward the bed.

Once cat-free, he turns back to Bastien with a wan smile as he comes to head out.]

Athessa’s.