It stings. It can't help but sting, because he wants to agree with Marius that yes, it was good that they met, but how can he say that when her absence creates such hurt?

How can he say 'she's gone because you existed'?

"She left. I don't know where she is." There's something dark, the opposite of love, in Howard's voice. It isn't possessive, but it is hurt and ugly, like a spider crawling its way out of his throat. "I was hoping you'd know where she was and if she's alright."