[It takes a little time for the tension in his grip to lessen. Riordan deserved better than that, but didn't they all? He nods, covers her hand covering his, and then draws away to finish up with making his tea. He sets the strainer aside on the saucer and pulls his cup in close. The warmth feels good against his palms.]

So you had your vengeance on Howe. [He doesn't seem to disapprove, meeting her gaze over the rim of his cup.

There's an odd hint of relief in his demeanor when he lowers it again. Joinings forged in acrimony and revenge rarely ended well, his own career aside. He wouldn't have wished the eventual guilt and bitterness on her or the Howe boy that could come of that.]

If he came to you in good faith and seemed competent, you had no reason to turn him away. People have joined for less noble reasons than that and still managed well. Things between the two of you now are eased?