[ It’s always a little bit of a strange jolt to hear Barry’s name said out loud. Alex hasn’t told anyone about that particular detail of her past. Even if she did, she doubts she’d ever address him by name. Something that has no name has no power, or so she feels that way. ]

I’m sorry, Worick. That sounds ungrateful, it’s just—

[ Alex fidgets with the silverware. Trying to find the words. ]

I told myself many times that I would leave you and... I suppose it doesn’t matter now. We’re both here. That makes it equal this time, doesn’t it? [ not bound together by guilt or obligation. She wants to know Worick. And not in the agonizingly polite dance they did before.

Alex gives him a small smile. ]

Ergastulum doesn’t have brunch like this.