[There's an imperceptible flinch when Gale says his name, despite how soft and quiet it is. He gave his word he wouldn't ruin this evening, didn't he? That he wouldn't come between Gale and his mother. Hells, how much time did he lose? How long was he slack jawed and out of his mind? He swallows before squeezing Gale's hand in his, putting on as much of a smile as he can muster.]

I didn't mean to worry you, dear. I was—somewhere else. It didn't seem right of me to interrupt you and your mother.