cosmicloveandincense:

His sleepy eyes widened a little in realization and a shade of guilt. “I apologize,” he said, setting down his tea and giving her his full attention. “I should have thought before speaking. A loved one on active duty right now, away from home… I can see why you’d worry.” 

And he can’t tell her not to. Telling her that everything would be all right and that her boyfriend would come home safe was not something either of them could know. Luniran did not make a policy of lying to his visitors, or belittling their concerns. 

“He’s a soldier, I take it?” 

Shae nodded slightly, giving him a half-hearted smile. She decided she liked this salarian, with his tea and his incense and decidedly without any of the usual listless condolences.

“The best and the bravest,” she said, a hint of pride glowing in her voice. “He’s serving with Commander Shepard.”