You don't own me

Zen was already half dressed and ready to head out the door when Lithe called out, "are you sure you don't want to stay for breakfast?"

"No need. I'm not particularly hungry and I can always grab a bite to eat if I feel peckish at the airport later."

"I thought you said you had some things to discuss with me. I don't feel that you should leave like this."

"Lithe," replied Zen quietly while buttoning up the remaining buttons on his shirt, "don't start a conversation you're not ready to hear yet. The last thing I want for you is to disappear on me or retreat behind that blank mask of yours."

"I guess we both have some adjusting to make," agreed Lithe quickly.

Zen relaxed a bit, "I know you would understand."

"I'm hoping that we can wrap this mission up in at least a week's time. I've been giving our upcoming trip a lot of thought and I've come up with a few niche ideas that just might work."