He startled at her touch, whipping around to stare at her for the unexpected contact. There was no anger anymore, just surprise that she was still here and talking to him.

He couldn't believe his ears. Aerith's words sounded suspiciously like an apology even if they were sharp and if his mother taught him anything it wasn't Aerith's behavior that required an apology. It was his.

Collins's shoulders slumped. His eyes searched hers for some sort of reasoning. There was something else in his eyes now, something that didn't befit the fierce hunter.

"You don't owe me anything," he said. He swallowed. "But I owe you a chance ta talk. I'll listen."