He returned the squeeze to the hand, lifting his other to stroke her hair, which seemed brittle under his fingers thanks to her years imprisoned.

"And I you." He replied. He knew that she'd never intentionally hurt him, and even if her ability had rejected the touch, stressed from her torture days and mistrust, he'd still hold on as long as he could bear.

"Come, you need rest." He said, steering her out of the kitchen and back to his chambers, letting her lean or touch him all she liked.

However, though she might trust him, her ability might still be dangerous to all others, so the training with the queen would still be needed. But he hoped she knew she was wanted and safe here, a big difference compared to the last time she'd worked on shutting off her ability.