In the Aeroplane Over the Sea

Unfortunately for Reek, meeting Saena's family at the Plateau had gone far worse than he had initially expected. He half-expected himself to make some sort of stupid gaff, thus turning the tone awkward and sour. The burden, this time, fell not on Reek's back, but the family itself— and for a moment Reek found himself relieved that for once it was not his fault. Despite his initial relief, the weight of the situation once again caused Reek to tense. The silence that followed Dante's explanation was turgid and awkward. Thick, as if it could have been cut by a hot knife.

He had not known Osprey, nor could he relate (yet) to the destruction the Plateau had faced, but what he did feel was the utmost sympathy for his sort-of girlfriend. She turned to leave irritably and Reek took his cue to follow suit. "Nice, uh— nice meeting you guys," he stammered awkwardly before falling in behind Saena to make their way back home to the Rise.