Yussa's reassurance and understanding and tender, caring kindness truly means the world. Caleb begins to relax again after he's kissed. It's like Yussa knows exactly what to say to get through to him, which is perhaps not surprising. They are wizards, and ultimately only those who have dedicated their lives to the study of the arcane, who have proven their curiosity and drive to be exceptional, will really be able to relate.
I am fond of you. Yussa has told him this once before, and Caleb could never forget it. But to know that fondness extends even this far makes him feel less alone. It makes him feel wanted in a way he hadn't dared to hope for. And finally, his perspective begins to shift. He may not be a wealthy archmage with a beautiful magical tower and centuries of experience, but he is Yussa's equal in this, and Yussa cares about what he wants. Not only that, but he enjoys doing things that will make him happy. Maybe that wouldn't be such a big realization for anyone else, but it is for Caleb.
He draws the the elf in fully in a tight embrace, tucking his face against his neck and taking comfort in holding that smaller body against him.
"I would never betray your trust." He can say that for himself with certainty, words muffled against Yussa's skin. "I treasure it far too much." He wonders if he could say what is in his heart aloud, express it fully for once. Not because he would ever expect Yussa to reciprocate or even respond, but just because sharing it at all would be meaningful for him. But as he has so often in his life, Caleb keeps it to himself. "Danke. I will remember, Yussa."
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I am fond of you. Yussa has told him this once before, and Caleb could never forget it. But to know that fondness extends even this far makes him feel less alone. It makes him feel wanted in a way he hadn't dared to hope for. And finally, his perspective begins to shift. He may not be a wealthy archmage with a beautiful magical tower and centuries of experience, but he is Yussa's equal in this, and Yussa cares about what he wants. Not only that, but he enjoys doing things that will make him happy. Maybe that wouldn't be such a big realization for anyone else, but it is for Caleb.
He draws the the elf in fully in a tight embrace, tucking his face against his neck and taking comfort in holding that smaller body against him.
"I would never betray your trust." He can say that for himself with certainty, words muffled against Yussa's skin. "I treasure it far too much." He wonders if he could say what is in his heart aloud, express it fully for once. Not because he would ever expect Yussa to reciprocate or even respond, but just because sharing it at all would be meaningful for him. But as he has so often in his life, Caleb keeps it to himself. "Danke. I will remember, Yussa."