Adam shifted once Alec finished his first hand, letting his knee rest against Alec's. He admired the color, considering how it looked against his hand. It felt strange, heavy, and he could tell that it was still wet, so he was careful not to touch them.

"I'm sorry," he murmured, half sympathy for Alec's difficulties with his mother, which made it easier to get the apology out.

"Was it your choice?" he asked, puzzled by the custom of soul-bonding two warriors. Alec said it was literal and Adam believed him. He was soul-bound to a ley line, after all.