he rubbed a lock between his fingers and then slid his hand across her cheek . yes , the tree breathed , grateful that she had understood . `` because i would have beat you anyway . '' this is standard uniform for a tropical station . '' he needed to learn that on this subject he was not allowed to say anything . that ca n't be helped ; she was awake when i slipped out . you were so much better off before you came here . i am barely get to know him . 