Shady

“It’s nice.” Tadaaki decided to nurse his cup. He didn’t know if he’d ever have it again, but he planned on enjoying this one to the fullest.

“You said this is called mead?” Tadaaki asked hesitantly.

Tadaaki nodded and also took another sip. “Thank you.”

Tadaaki glanced up guiltily, nodding. “Yes sir. It’s very good.”

Tadaaki took a small drink and smiled a little before he thought to hide it. It was good.

Tadaaki hesitantly took the other glass, hoping it was the right move. He also sniffed his glass, not drinking yet. It smelled good.

Tadaaki glanced up at the sound. What was he doing? Was he supposed to be sitting here with a noble? It didn’t feel like it.

Tadaaki quietly walked to the chair and sat down, glancing around. Then realized he wasn’t sure if he was supposed to and quickly dropped his gaze.

Tadaaki folded his hands in front of himself, lingering awkwardly off to the side of the door. He wasn’t about to do anything without an invitation.

“Thank you, sir.” Tadaaki ducked his head and stepped inside quickly, every instinct within him wanting to hold the door for Ash instead. That’s how things should be.

Tadaaki followed behind, this time risking glances around. He’d mostly been keeping his eyes on the floor since the moment he entered this Keep. At least when they were out ...

Tadaaki nodded. He had no defense. Or commentary.

Tadaaki grimaced. “I’m sorry to hear that.”

“I…” He didn’t know what to say. He ducked his head. “I… appreciate that, sir… and… I… it’s… understandable. I-we- were…” he cringed. “…lying… and… I can’t imagine

He resisted the urge to apologize for apologizing. Barely. “…yessir.”