Somehow, when Biffy said it, it did not seem quite as pithy as it could have from other people. His earnestness won the strength of conviction, and Krem appreciated the sentiment, even if he didn't believe it, on more days than not.

Today was a slightly better day, aching and clarified and feeling closer to whole, closer to how he ought to, if he'd been back home. That made it easier.

"Dorian is certainly a reason, all on his own."