He was momentarily surprised at her embrace. Surprised twice in less than a minute; if he hadn't been so pleased, he would have been irritated with himself for his lack of awareness.
As it was, he found himself wishing now that he'd sought her out while he was in his black mood. At the time he hadn't wanted to drag her down with him. But she was so easy to talk to, and being around her made him happy. He cared for her in a way he hadn't cared for anyone since Mary. He tightened his hold on her, not uncomfortably, but in concern, until she pulled away.
"What's wrong?" he asked, frowning. "Didn't you get my note?"