"Sayyida-- my deepest apologies," he said quietly. "I can see my words have hurt you. Please, I would sooner leave than deprive you of an enjoyable evening."

And he suited action to word, beginning to stand up. There was much on her mind, and an evening like this - a feast, a gathering - was the sort of thing that could take one's mind off of troubles if they let it. And as it had been he that had brought painful memories to mind, perhaps it would be best if he let her be.