Hild had already spent much of the morning in Derek's company, helping with the others to prepare for the feast, but still she gravitated to him. She was careful not to cling too much. He was host and all the people here were his friends to some degree. He had to greet and speak with them all, make sure they felt comfortable. But even two weeks removed from that dark place, Hild still felt safest near Derek.

She snuck quietly to his side when he was free, knowing he would sense her despite her attempt at being unobtrusive. Hild slipped her hand into his and gave it a squeeze.