Kian swallowed the lump forming in his throat.
It's okay. You are okay.
Someone was actually listening to him without interrupting to demand anything from him, without blaming him, or without asking for help from him.
Hoping Xal didn't notice the stupid tremble in his voice, he continued, "No… like people interrupt and never really listen. That's annoying. But that's something I'm used to. So, you listening to me is more annoying."
Xal shook his head in disbelief and gestured for him to continue.
"Um… I guess what I was trying to say is that I think it would be better if we parted ways. What I do always comes with a risk, and worst of all, being my bodyguard can be even worse."
"You don't have to mess up your life because some random dude dragged you into a supernatural crisis. I was gonna leave anyway. Forget about this whole thing ever happened. Eat some sweets, you'll feel better." He absentmindedly tapped his index finger on the arm of the chair, trying to recall if he had missed anything he should inform.
"Oh… and your mom called. I told her you got drunk and passed out before I asked your address, just so she wouldn't be worried. You should call her back. I told her you're completely fine. That was a white lie." He took a good look at him.
The complexion had returned, and Xal was sitting straight, staring at him without squinting his eyes.
"But right now, you look good enough to make your way back."
Yeah. His headache seemed to be gone as well. Good to go. He thought, relieved.