There’s no outward sign. He’s a professional. But inwardly, Bastien considers realigning his understanding of the situation. Gifts, advice from Athessa. Colin not liking to talk about himself but doing so for a fairly long period of time anyway, without making or taking any opportunity to change the subject.

Altogether, it’s within the realm of possibility—not a certainty, especially when they aren’t in Orlais, but a reasonable chance—that Colin wants something. Something other than getting to know each other.

Which would be fine. Bastien would prefer to be told outright what it is and maybe paid for it, all things equal, and if Athessa knows he might have liked a warning, but he’s not offended by the possibility. People usually want something.

He dips his hand deeper into the water, waves rolling over high enough to wet the cuff on his shirt sleeve, and says, “That is always hard.”