That storm of emotions turned quickly to a flood of relief as he heard Valdis's voice sound in his mind. Still he didn't turn, instead letting his forehead touch the punching bag one more time and his eyes close, this time with relief and a silent note of thanks to whomever might be listening. Valdis was back. Skulduggery was back. Maybe... maybe everything wasn't falling apart after all.

When he did turn he managed to suppress the grin that was threatening to overtake his face. Mostly. One of the corners of his mouth turned upward ever so slightly, and the dark circles under his eyes did nothing to detract from the look of happiness--and mischief--in them.

"Look, I know this is probably a rude thing to say to a lady, but... you might want to look at shaving. Things seem to have gotten out of hand since you've been gone."