The ring gave her hope - There was only instance of Charles that she knew was married, and the sight of it, as happy as it was, still twisted a dagger in her soul somewhere, like the City was trying to fuck with her again, a carrot and stick of hope that both of them would come back. With a clear wash of relief, Devi matched the slow, almost cautious step towards him.

Her face pinched a little. Can I give you a hug? Devi was not a hugger - that hadn't changed, but Charles Xavier-Malfoy had found himself to be a broad exception. If he said yes, she wouldn't hesitate to throw her arms around him and squeeze him close.

"I'm happy you're back," she started, voice sympathetic to the fact that he was back alone. Silver linings and all. "Are you okay?"