He hears it in her voice. Pain. Sharp and insatiable, deep as a yawning pit. An old friend. A familiar friend— for the both of them, in fact, making its home here in memory and drink alike. Her profile sinks into his shoulder. Her breath so unspeakably warm.

He's not given to softness, but the question that chases it isn't one he'd meant to ask. And in the moment it snakes between his teeth, his own voice feels foreign.

"Was it worth it?"