William grimaced at the summons from the King. The last thing he wanted was to be called away from Genna, but he'd known from the start that his duties to the King would not be put aside forever. Rising, he kissed Genna on the forehead and then ordered the maester to remain by her side until he returned.
He looked haggard and unkempt. Sleep had elluded him for most of the days, except when he finally, in exhaustion, fell asleep with his head on his daughter's bed. Food came and went, usually untouched, except when his sister forced him to eat. All he could think about was how he'd failed his daughter, bringing her to summerhall only for her to become so deathly sick.
Entering the King's chamber, he felt like a lost man. When Jaehaerys spoke, William could barely answer. His throat was parched and his head was pounding. Without a word, he took up the decanter of wine and poured himself a glass, taking a long drink. "Then speak, Your Grace. I should like to return to her side as soon as possible."