[ Gale has never seen Astarion’s eyes like this, unguarded because they’ve already been wrenched open with hurt. They’re bigger than he thought, or fuller, with depths otherwise hidden in a slanted gaze.

Not for the first time, he wonders why Astarion chose him, of all their companions. They both know hunger and service, but it’s not that — or not just that. Gale has never wanted to protect anyone more, to leave anyone less, and he doesn’t have the faintest idea how to do those things.

The embrace surprises him at first, but he soon returns it, one hand clutching Astarion’s waist and the other cupping the back of his head, stroking his hair. Gods, what would another way even look like, against their foe? ]

I’m sorry. [ hushed into Astarion’s curls in an attempt to hide the crack in his voice. Even Gale can’t say whether he’s apologising for what he’s done or what he intends to do. He presses another kiss to the crown of Astarion’s head, affection with nowhere to go. ]

Will you stay with me tonight? [ softer, ] I don’t mean to ask for anything but your company. [ even that is too much. ] Day will come all too soon, even in this place.