He could see that, but expressing feelings other than anger and irritation were difficult for Cassian, and when he reeled his fist back for another enraged blow, the lack of any kind of argument on Tannusen's part was the anchor that dragged it back down.

An open hand moved to rest on the one that now lay on Tannusen's jaw, the smaller man quaking with the most confusing mixture of emotions and thoughts he'd ever had to puzzle over in his long, long life.

"... And if ye don't care for me back, say it now, and say it honestly. Meet me in the eye and tell me you never want to see my face or hear my voice again, and I'll grant ye that, Tannusen.

... Because if that's what will make ye any happier, than it'll be enough to make me happy."