( He nearly neglects to stop by her — and, shamed by his own failure, doubles down on his amends by waving away his attendant to signal he'll stay beside Sarah a few heartbeats, before crawling on.

They have their shift to work, people who enjoy the prince's company. For all he can only bring them minimal healing, he is not entirely inept at boosting morale.

He suspects that's all they expect from him — the smile he affords Sarah now, if perhaps less sheepish. )

Thank you. I woke feeling much improved. Of course, your help was critical.