Northstar Vale Dammit Tubbs, not again

Everyone wanted to belong somewhere. To find themselves in a safe environment, free from the stress of a life lived alone, and so when the woman tempted him with her offer - and he was mightily tempted - he almost accepted straight off the bat. The chance to have a safe space was passing him by too quickly; it was winter now, and not even the most foolish rogues would refuse the chance for sanctuary. Maybe a part of him felt unworthy of it. Tryphon, the boy who nobody wanted, the one who couldn't even keep a temporary family intact around him - no, he had failed in so many regards to so many people. This would not be another notch on his proverbial belt.

There was a spark of need in his eyes that could not be contained. The pale yellow ignited, his expression softening as if he was about to beg for her acceptance - but he does not. Instead he grows crestfallen as thoughts of inadequacy and failure fill his mind, to the point where Tryphon only shakes his head. Another denial. He does not wish to ruin whatever fortuitous plans this woman has set in to motion; it is his way of protecting her, and saving her kindness for someone of greater value. The boy chuffs softly to himself, almost like a hrmph, and pulls away from her presence. The added physical distance is matched by his mental withdrawal from the conversation, and so Asterr is left stranded while Tryphon looks around forlornly for a route to escape.

The longer he stays with her, the less he wants to leave. But for her sake, he must.