[Though it's no great burden to help Arthur hold this weight, it does come as a relief when she feels him smile. When the comfort and sincerity sink in, and she knows that her feelings have not only been understood and taken to heart, but that they've been a balm to this wound that's needed lancing for far too long.
She tilts her chin down to meet his eyes when he pulls back, a content smile on her face as the hand at his nape slides forward to cup his jaw and the gentle stroke of her thumb resumes at the hollow of his cheek. With affection,] It's what friends do, as I recall.
[Of course there's no expectation in return, but that's less a quality of selflessness and more that Arthur has already given her something she couldn't repay no matter how much she gives. He was there when she needed someone, when she had to confront not only the most hated parts of herself but how very alone she's felt in this strange and gluttonous world. Despite their differences, despite the coalescence of his own self-loathsome parts dogging his every step, he came to ensure that she knew she had someone who would be by her side. Even now, with a tug at his exhausted end of the Tether, he reasserts his dedication to that promise.
She can't give anything except her own promise for something like that. And she can't do anything except love a person who's decided to love her like that.
A slight and inquisitive tilt of her head accompanies her easy invitation.] If you would be more comfortable staying here for the night, you're always welcome to.
no subject
She tilts her chin down to meet his eyes when he pulls back, a content smile on her face as the hand at his nape slides forward to cup his jaw and the gentle stroke of her thumb resumes at the hollow of his cheek. With affection,] It's what friends do, as I recall.
[Of course there's no expectation in return, but that's less a quality of selflessness and more that Arthur has already given her something she couldn't repay no matter how much she gives. He was there when she needed someone, when she had to confront not only the most hated parts of herself but how very alone she's felt in this strange and gluttonous world. Despite their differences, despite the coalescence of his own self-loathsome parts dogging his every step, he came to ensure that she knew she had someone who would be by her side. Even now, with a tug at his exhausted end of the Tether, he reasserts his dedication to that promise.
She can't give anything except her own promise for something like that. And she can't do anything except love a person who's decided to love her like that.
A slight and inquisitive tilt of her head accompanies her easy invitation.] If you would be more comfortable staying here for the night, you're always welcome to.