He knows that feeling of having the carrot and stick of hope constantly dangling in front of him. If it's not happening in his world, it's happening elsewhere and despite how bleak things can get sometimes, Charles always manages to keep looking for it. Draco isn't there and he knows that. But as long as he's there, he's a married man. That won't change.

The question doesn't receive an answer; the timing has Devi easily within arm's length at about the same time as he would. It's the kind of embrace that is meant to be comforting but also seeking comfort in return and when he pulls back, Charles leaves his hands on her upper arms for a moment longer.

"Head is a bit jumbled but otherwise I'm well," he answers, looking her over. "You look.."

As if she had lived 3 lifetimes.

"How long has it been?"