Chapter eleven:

It was hard to say what pained her the most. The sight of Drizzt's eyes so filled with terror and sorrow, or that he shied away from her when she reached out for him.

Catti-brie hesitated when he pulled into himself, wondering for a few moments if she should proceed with her movement – and if it would be wise in the first place. Swallowing, meeting the dull lavender gaze as he met her eyes once more, she decided it could do no more harm, and brought her hand into contact with his shoulder.

His eyes immediately shut, the arms around his knees tightening their grip, as if he was preparing for a hit from an unseen enemy.

She could feel his tremble under her palm as she pressed the flat of her hand against him. However, as he did not push her away, she reached out with her other hand, placing it on the opposite shoulder.

His trembling increased, though it was not wrought completely of fear, and she reacted almost instinctively, sliding one hand up to his neck, and carefully pulled the drow into her embrace.