Caroline's eyes watched Evander's every move in the mirror as he sighed and sank down on the bed. She knew how draining nightmares could be and the way he sagged seemed show that weariness. Perhaps that's why she shrugged off his use of absolutely splendid, which was not in his normal realm of vocabulary.

But when he apologized her eyes snapped on to his in the mirror, widening slightly. She was careful to keep the rest of her face neutral and continue combing. Evander did not hand out apologies well or often. They were begruded things that were an awkward affair and only for the very large things. She loved Evander, but was well aware of his stoic nature. His emotions and kindness were more like a current in the sea then a visiable thing. This.... this wasn't normal.

"I understand." Caroline pretended not to watch him, switching to putting on her earrings instead. She didn't want to spook him by acknowledging the rawness of his current state. "I've been having them too lately." Her words were quiet but compassionate. She hadn't shared with him the nightmares, the storms and seawater that woke her in a sweat these days.

All thoughts of dreams flew out the window at his next suggestion. Caroline wasn't sure she guarded the shock well. Evander never took a day off. Regardless of how he felt. Nor did he ever consider taking a day off to take time with her. It simply wasn't who he was. Nor would he do something to make up for his actions. He was never so..... considerate. He was considerate in his own way, but not this way.

Carefully, adjusting her face to reflect curiosity and concern, rather than the excitement she felt at something that was clearly not okay, she turned to toward him on the cushioned bench. "But," She started slowly, "Won't you miss too much at work?" Her brow furrowed in concern as she tried to recall just what projects he was working on.