Verity gives him too much credit already. Quality will last him longer and in better stead. But that's one of the lessons of growing up he seems destined to avoid.

"Is that what you're hoping for? That if you are kind to me, and patient, that I'll have a sudden change of heart and see some spark of goodness in you that sparks warmth in my own old heart?" Her tone grows softer, quieter while she talks. Like it's possible. It's only to make the truth hurt more. Sharp blades cut soft meat better. "That is not possible."