Null hadn't said a word since and Sebille hadn't dared to look back. She knew he was following her again but she couldn't bring herself to say anything anymore . It would possibly anger him more.

She had no idea what to expect. Yes, she was scared but she was more angry.

"Wait... Sebille"

His voice came out quiet and low. It was rather apologetic.

She stopped on her tracks.

This was the first time he'd said her name, or the first time he'd been allowed to.

It had quite an effect on her and she couldn't think for a moment.

She came to when he touched her arm, all the previous roughness gone.

"Null... don't..."

He pressed his forehead against her back, not saying a word. This was his silent way of apologizing.

"Don't do that... I can't be mad at you if you do."

All her resistance was gone when he had lowered himself below her.

A moment passed in silence.

She turned around slowly but Null didn't lift his head to look at her.

Sebille wanted to know what had happened back there. What was wrong with him, what worried him?

"Null..."

She was afraid that it was serious. She couldn't imagine it wasn't. It had gotten Null all wound up and irritated.

She didn't wonder why he'd been alone all this time. She didn't wish to ever see him enraged. Being bad-tempered was enough to scare her a little when she didn't know the cause.

"Won't you tell me... what's wrong...?"
She whispered.

His hand pressed against her back, his grip a little tighter than previously. Something was wrong and Sebille had to know what it was.

She'd just need the courage to ask him first...