Cards were on the table. She had no idea what was churning through his mind, the music that swelled and the discord that twanged rather then thrilled into the great crescendo that he so desired.

When his hand smashed against the wall, she jumped. It couldn't be helped; it was a reflex from a violent reaction.

But when he grabbed her, she didn't resist. Even when he grabbed to the point of causing pain to himself, she only offered a confused look, and a slight shake of her head.

"I don't understand." Her voice was quiet, and green eyes kept on blue.

And there was no sign of magic, at all. If that was what he wanted either she was being truthful, or wanted him to believe in her lie that much.