Tayrey recognises that pain in his eyes, and her own expression softens. Perhaps he might understand, after all. Might not treat her as if she's overreacting, or as if humans are somehow beneath him because he's capable of things they aren't.

'Not here,' she says at last, quietly. Here is far too public, and she's not committing to telling him somewhere else, is she? Only suggesting that it isn't impossible. Her gaze lingers on him for a moment longer, silent appreciation for his offer and for his willingness to share something of his own pain.

And then she blinks, straightens up a little. 'So how does it work? When my finances are in order, that is. We meet to negotiate contract?'