She returned to calling him by the title he had once given her, so long ago. He could feel the anger in her tone, and baring her teeth - even at the water - was highly unusual for her. She really was truly upset with him. He came to a stop, instead of moving any closer, and took a seat, uncertain how to proceed from here.
“Zee, I don’t understand” he said, clearing his throat as he found emotion blocking it. Dammit, why did she have to do this to him? They were just settling into a good place, he had opened up to her, as he had not done to any other before.
He wasn’t feeling anger, he was mostly just feeling confusion, and treated her like a wild animal he didn’t wish to startle. “Zee… I’m sick and tired of hurting you, I don’t want to do it anymore, I don't want to be the tool they use to punish you. I did this for you so that they might actually leave you alone for once!” okay, maybe a little anger was in there, rising out in his voice, and he let out a loud exhale of annoyance.
Bloodletter
