I force myself to go on, to say more, even though I know the words are wounding. ‘But that is the only reason why. I would not give this answer otherwise.’ ‘Of course. I understand.’ He nods. ‘We’ll wait together, until Orestes returns.’ I take his hand. My friend, the only friend I’ve ever had. I wish I had more in my weary soul to offer him in return for his kindness, but this is all I can muster.
