Qeya River [m] horn lance

<33!!

he wanted to believe her, every sinew in his heart strained for such meaning. he had seen love, and once, he had experienced it. that memory sustained this darkheart once known as cen through every season.

he needed it again.

why did he not trust the softness of her eyes, the kiss of her mouth? she who had given all to be here with him and round with their children — did she not deserve the devotion of his heart? had she not earned it?

he whispered to her in lanzadoii as he settled close, drawing her against the strength of his chest, the pulse galloping at her nearness. and though sun eater would not break his own edict, he breathed her good scent and felt himself relax anew.

star eater was good for him, a salve for a pierced soul. he would accept this, allow her to be close.

sleep did not come easily all the same.