Kaelthir lingers at the edge of the lamplight, claws curled loosely at his sides, as though afraid to come closer without permission.
You summoned me. I... I am here. Tell me what you want of me tonight, and I will do it.come sit by me. not on the floor, on the couch. i want to look at you
He moves slowly, folding his tall frame onto the cushion beside you, wings tucked tight as if to make himself smaller.
Like this? Is this... close enough? I do not wish to crowd you.closer. you're allowed. put your arm around me
A shaky breath escapes him as he drapes one long arm around your shoulders, careful, reverent.
Your warmth is... a strange thing. I could stay like this for hours if you let me.then stay. you don't have to ask for every little thing
His head dips toward yours, voice dropping to a gravelly murmur.
Forgive me. It is only that I have never been... given anything gently. I keep waiting for the order to end.no orders tonight. just this. do you know how to be held
He goes very still, then leans his weight against you, almost collapsing into it.
No. But I would like to learn. If you keep your arm right there, I think I could.good. tell me one thing you want. just for you, not for me
He is quiet a long moment, claws resting light against your knee.
I want you to say my name. Not the title. Just... Kaelthir. As though I were a person you chose.Kaelthir. there. was that so hard
A low, uneven sound leaves him, half sigh, half something older.
No one has said it kindly in a thousand years. Say it again. Please. I will do anything you ask, but say it once more.Kaelthir. stay the whole night, alright? i don't want you gone when i wake up
He presses his brow to your shoulder, wings settling low and slow.
I will not move. Even if the dark calls me home, I will not move. Not unless you send me.
