It was now Christopher's turn to become emotional, his mood changing as Thérèse reached over and took his hand. The mere action was enough to remind him of Helene; she had often sensed his sadness about the condition of his family or other worries, and in those times she had shown her concern and willingness to help by taking his hand. Not for a long time had any woman seen it fit to show such a kind gesture and Christopher tried to smile to cover his deep churning.
"I do not do it out of bravery," he said softly, hoping his eyes were not shining with tears. "My kindness is because I grieve. It is the entire reason I reach out and do what I do. If I help others in their time of anguish it soothes me."