Once again, the atmosphere surrounding the table was incredibly tense as Ashlynn and Loman returned to their meal, but this time, it was Loman who put in the effort to bring things back to a companionable level between them. After all, words were easy to say, but a real apology required deeds.
"You mentioned that you'd heard rumors about my father's attempts to play matchmaker," Loman said, making a peace offering of his own with his choice of topic. He didn't imagine that anyone would be interested in marrying the hideous, disfigured man he'd become, but for a moment, it felt nice to pretend that he still had some prospects.
"I wonder, sister-in-law," he said, pointing at her with his spoon as he carefully enunciated the words 'sister-in-law' in mock formality. "What do you think of a match between me and Micheline DuCoumont?" Loman asked hesitantly as he stirred the rich, creamy mushroom soup that Ashlynn had prepared.
