Elijah looked down sheepishly as he ate slowly. "Sorry... Ah! I mean.. its a habit of mine. I feel like something is always amiss and if I can't fix it I apologize."

He smiled weakly and rubbed the back of his neck for a moment .

"Maybe. I mean, he said we should stay apart. I guess I always hope but... I shouldn't. As much as I want this. I want him, and ...I shouldn't have him anyway. " He owed his eyes in frustration but gave up and sighed.
"I'll stay away unless needed in a professional manner. Thank you."

He took another spoonful of stew. "I hope the food is palpable, Father. Would you like some milk or something to drink?"