{"sf1_id":null,"sf2_id":"m0Kj2QZe","title":"Ash and Song Chapter Ten","author":"Mithrilix","words":4367,"posted_at":"2026-07-02T14:30:59.000Z","tags":["Anthro","Cuddling","Dragon","Dragonborn","Fantasy","Gay","Human","Love","Romance"],"url":"https://fse.anthro.fr/stories/m0Kj2QZe-ash-and-song-chapter-ten","original_url":"https://sofurry.com/s/m0Kj2QZe","image_url":"https://www.sofurryfiles.com/std/thumb?page=\u0026ext=.jpg","description":"In the quiet village of Grovehollow, a dragonborn warrior named Toryn is trying to learn what it means to stay.  \n  \n Scarred from a life of battle and burdened by the belief that he is meant only for steel and solitude, Toryn never expects kindness—least of all from a soft-spoken human healer with golden hair and hands gentle enough to steady the fiercest flame. Cassius Ordo is shy, earnest, and quietly brave, tending wounds both seen and unseen. When he fusses over Toryn’s injuries with tender insistence, something long locked in the dragonborn’s chest begins to loosen.","content":"The fire burned lower, settling into a bed of glowing embers that painted the cottage in soft amber and gold.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass remained tucked comfortably against Toryn's chest beneath the blanket, one hand still resting atop the Dragonborn's tail.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNeither seemed particularly eager to move.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe room felt too warm.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToo safe.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToo much like something precious.\u0026nbsp;\n\nFor a while they simply listened to the crackle of the hearth.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen Cass spoke quietly.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"What did you want to be?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn blinked.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"What?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"When you were younger.\" Cass tilted his head back slightly to look up at him. \"Before you became a soldier.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nNo one had ever asked him that.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNot once.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn stared into the fire.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I don't know.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass made a small sound of disagreement.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I think you do.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nSilence settled.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe fire popped softly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nEventually Toryn sighed.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"When I was little…\" A faint smile touched his mouth. \"I wanted to build things.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass looked surprised.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Build things?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn nodded.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"My father was a carpenter.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe words felt strange to say aloud.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I used to sit beside him while he worked. He'd let me hand him tools and hold nails and sweep up sawdust.\" Another small smile appeared. \"I thought he could make anything.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass watched him carefully.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"He built our table. My mother's shelves. My bed.\" Toryn's eyes softened with memory. \"I remember thinking he was some sort of wizard.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThat made Cass laugh softly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn found himself smiling more.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I wanted to be like him.\" He looked down at his own hands. \"I wanted to make things people used every day. Things that lasted.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe words grew quieter.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I wanted to build homes.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass's expression had gone entirely soft.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn huffed once.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"It sounds foolish now.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"It doesn't.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I became rather the opposite.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No.\" Cass's answer came immediately.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn blinked.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass shifted enough to look at him fully.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You repaired my shelves. My roof. My fence. You built me a cabinet that doesn't wobble anymore.\" He smiled faintly. \"You still make things, Toryn.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn stared at him.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I think…\" Cass said softly, \"I think you're becoming the person you wanted to be.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nSomething in Toryn's chest hurt.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNot painfully.\u0026nbsp;\n\nWorse.\u0026nbsp;\n\nWarmly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe swallowed.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Gods, Cass.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer looked worried immediately.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Was that the wrong thing to say?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn's voice had gone rough.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Quite the opposite.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThey sat quietly for a while after that.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen Toryn looked down at him.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"And you?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass blinked.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You asked me first.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nA blush immediately touched his cheeks.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Why did you want to become a wizard?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n“You know about that?”\u0026nbsp;\n\n“Yes.”\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass was silent for a long moment.\u0026nbsp;\n\nWhen he spoke, his voice had grown softer.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I thought magic could fix everything.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn frowned slightly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass looked back toward the fire.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"When I was little, my mother was sick often. Nothing serious. Just…\" He shrugged. \"Always tired. Always hurting somewhere.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nHis fingers twisted lightly in the blanket.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"There was a traveling wizard who came through our village once. He healed my mother's back pain with a spell.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nHis expression turned distant.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I remember watching him and thinking it was the most amazing thing I'd ever seen.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nA smile touched his face.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"He made someone I loved stop hurting.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn listened quietly.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"So I decided I would become a wizard.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass laughed softly at himself.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I was very serious about it. I carried sticks and pretended they were staffs.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn smiled.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I can imagine.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I studied constantly.\" His smile grew smaller. \"I was accepted into an academy eventually.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn's brows rose.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You never mentioned that.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass shrugged.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I wasn't very good.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I doubt that.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No, truly.\" He laughed softly. \"I was terrible.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I don't believe you.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass looked up at him with amusement.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I could memorize every book in the library and still fail practical lessons.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn smiled.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I could never shape spells properly.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe smile faded.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I kept trying.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nHis voice grew quiet.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"And trying.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe silence that followed said everything.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh,\" Toryn said softly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass nodded.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I eventually realized that no matter how badly I wanted it…\" He smiled sadly. \"I simply wasn't meant to be a wizard.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe words carried an old hurt.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn recognized it immediately.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe mourning of a dream.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"But then,\" Cass said, brighter now, \"one of my instructors suggested healing.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe looked back toward the fire.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No magic required. Just knowledge. Study. Patience.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nA real smile appeared.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I realized I could still help people.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe looked up at Toryn again.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I couldn't fix everything.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nHis eyes softened.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"But maybe I could make things hurt a little less.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn's throat tightened.\u0026nbsp;\n\nBecause of course that was who Cass had become.\u0026nbsp;\n\nSomeone who spent his days easing pain.\u0026nbsp;\n\nSomeone who built people back together instead of houses.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer yawned suddenly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen looked horrified.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I did not just do that.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn laughed softly.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You absolutely did.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I'm not tired.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnother yawn betrayed him immediately.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn's smile widened.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass looked personally offended by his own body.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You are falling asleep.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I am not.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Tiny liar.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass made an indignant noise.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen yawned again.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe battle was clearly lost.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn's expression softened into something unbearably fond.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Come here.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nBefore Cass could ask what that meant, Toryn carefully slid one arm beneath his knees and another around his back.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer squeaked.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Ah! Toryn!\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You can barely keep your eyes open.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I can walk.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You can barely yawn upright.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass laughed softly despite himself.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen, to Toryn's immense satisfaction, simply relaxed into his arms.\u0026nbsp;\n\nGods.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThis was dangerous.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn carried him to the bedroom as though he weighed nothing at all.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe cottage's little bedroom suddenly seemed very small.\u0026nbsp;\n\nVery intimate.\u0026nbsp;\n\nVery full of possibilities that made both men immediately awkward.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass sat on the edge of the bed.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn stood beside it.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNeither moved.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You can have the bed,\" they both said simultaneously.\u0026nbsp;\n\nSilence.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No,\" Cass said.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No,\" Toryn agreed.\u0026nbsp;\n\nMore silence.\u0026nbsp;\n\nEventually Cass smiled.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"We're both impossible.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"It appears so.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThey prepared for bed with all the grace of frightened deer.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass changed into a loose sleeping shirt and promptly forgot what he was doing halfway through putting it on.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn removed his boots.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen his belt.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen finally his shirt.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe room became very quiet.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass looked up.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnd forgot how breathing worked.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn was beautiful.\u0026nbsp;\n\nBroad shoulders and powerful muscles marked with old scars. Dark red and black scales caught the firelight like polished stone. Strong arms that had carried him from the hearth. Hands capable of gentleness that still made Cass's face warm to think about.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnd the scales.\u0026nbsp;\n\nGods.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThey really were beautiful.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You have lovely scales,\" Cass said before he could stop himself.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn blinked.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"What?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass looked embarrassed.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"They're beautiful.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nSilence.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNo one had ever called them beautiful.\u0026nbsp;\n\nEver.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn looked at him like he'd forgotten every\u0026nbsp;word he'd ever learned.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass's blush deepened.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I—if that was strange to say—\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe word came almost too quickly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn sat carefully on the bed.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Not strange.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe looked at his hands.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen back at Cass.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Thank you.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer smiled softly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThat smile.\u0026nbsp;\n\nGods.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn wanted to tell him everything.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHow he had watched him with the fireflies.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHow he carried the taste of honey cakes in his memory.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHow every evening now revolved around seeing him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHow the cottage felt more like home than anywhere else in years.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHow he'd been doomed from the moment a shy healer had smiled at him and offered tea.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe words crowded painfully behind his ribs.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe almost said them.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAlmost.\u0026nbsp;\n\nInstead he looked at Cass.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer's eyes had gone heavy with sleep.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe was blinking slowly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nBarely awake.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn's heart melted completely.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNo.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNot tonight.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThis was too precious to burden with confessions spoken into exhaustion.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Come here,\" he said softly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass obeyed immediately.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn lay down and gently drew him closer.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer settled beside him with a small sleepy sound, curling naturally against his chest.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAs though he belonged there.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAs though he'd always belonged there.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn pulled the blanket over them both.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass's hand found his chest.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHis breathing slowed.\u0026nbsp;\n\nWithin minutes, he was asleep.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn remained awake.\u0026nbsp;\n\nWatching him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nListening to each quiet breath.\u0026nbsp;\n\nFeeling the warmth of him against his scales.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe wanted to tell him so many things.\u0026nbsp;\n\nInstead, he tucked the blanket a little higher around the sleeping healer and held him carefully through the night.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThere would be time.\u0026nbsp;\n\nFor now, this was enough.\u0026nbsp;\n\nMore than enough.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass was here.\u0026nbsp;\n\nIn his arms.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnd for the first time in longer than he could remember, Toryn felt completely, utterly at peace.\u0026nbsp;\n\n-\u0026nbsp;\n\nMorning arrived slowly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn surfaced from sleep to warmth.\u0026nbsp;\n\nFor one disorienting moment, he couldn't remember where he was.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen he smelled breakfast.\u0026nbsp;\n\nFresh bread toasting.\u0026nbsp;\n\nSomething sizzling gently in a pan.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnd beneath it all—\u0026nbsp;\n\nHoney.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe blinked.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen came the soft sound of singing.\u0026nbsp;\n\nA quiet, sleepy melody drifting from somewhere nearby.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn's eyes opened.\u0026nbsp;\n\nSunlight streamed through the cottage windows in pale golden bands. The other side of the bed was empty, the blankets still slightly rumpled and warm.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe singing continued.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn lay perfectly still.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen a slow, disbelieving smile spread across his face.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe wasn't at the inn.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe wasn't alone.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe had spent the night beside someone who had chosen to let him stay.\u0026nbsp;\n\nGods.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe closed his eyes again for one brief moment.\u0026nbsp;\n\nJust to make certain.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe singing continued.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNot a dream.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNot a dream.\u0026nbsp;\n\nA soft laugh escaped him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe pushed himself upright and ran one hand over his face.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen he heard Cass humming to himself again.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn stood and quietly stepped toward the kitchen.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe stopped in the doorway.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnd forgot how breathing worked.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass stood at the little stove with his back to him, utterly absorbed in making breakfast.\u0026nbsp;\n\nBarefoot.\u0026nbsp;\n\nGolden hair spilling down his back in soft waves.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnd wearing—\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn's shirt.\u0026nbsp;\n\nIt hung absurdly large on him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe hem reached nearly to his knees. The sleeves swallowed his hands. The collar had slipped off one shoulder entirely, revealing soft pale skin.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn's heart stopped.\u0026nbsp;\n\nBecause there, just above his collarbone—\u0026nbsp;\n\nFaint marks.\u0026nbsp;\n\nLittle signs of affection left the night before.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe places he'd nuzzled.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe gentle bites beneath Cass's jaw.\u0026nbsp;\n\nA few soft kisses along his throat.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNothing more than small traces.\u0026nbsp;\n\nYet seeing them made something deep and possessive stir inside him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNot possessive in a cruel way.\u0026nbsp;\n\nJust...\u0026nbsp;\n\n_Mine._\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe thought arrived unbidden and hit him like a hammer.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe shirt was his.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe marks were his.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnd Cass was standing barefoot in his cottage, humming softly while making breakfast for them.\u0026nbsp;\n\nFor them.\u0026nbsp;\n\nGods.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn was done for.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCompletely.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass turned a little to stir something in the pan, and the oversized shirt slipped farther down his shoulder.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn made a strangled sound.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass jumped.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen looked over.\u0026nbsp;\n\nBlue eyes widened.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh! You're awake.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe smiled.\u0026nbsp;\n\nA little sleepy.\u0026nbsp;\n\nA little shy.\u0026nbsp;\n\nBeautiful.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn felt his chest tighten.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Good morning,\" Cass said.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn simply stared.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass blinked.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"...Toryn?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn crossed the room.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass had enough time to look slightly alarmed.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen Toryn reached him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nOne large arm slipped around his waist.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen the other.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnd suddenly Cass was gathered gently against him from behind.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh,\" Cass said.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn lowered his face immediately into the crook of his neck.\u0026nbsp;\n\nLavender.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHoney.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCassius.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe made a deep, contented sound in his chest.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass laughed softly.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Good morning to you too.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn nuzzled him again.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen again.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass was beginning to suspect this might simply be how Dragonborn greeted people they liked.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNot that he minded.\u0026nbsp;\n\nWarm arms held him securely. Strong scales pressed lightly against his back. Toryn's face remained tucked against his neck like he'd discovered his favorite place in the world.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer relaxed completely.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You seem happy this morning.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I am.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe answer came immediately.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass smiled.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I was trying not to wake you.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I don't mind waking to this.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"To breakfast?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn nuzzled him once more.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"To you.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nSilence.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass turned pink.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn smiled against his shoulder.\u0026nbsp;\n\nGods, he was adorable.\u0026nbsp;\n\nVery gently, he pressed a kiss to the soft skin beneath Cass's ear.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer shivered.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Toryn.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn's arms tightened slightly around him.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You wear my shirt.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass looked down as though surprised to discover this.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I... may have borrowed it.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You may keep it.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass laughed softly.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I should probably wash it first.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You may still keep it.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer turned even pinker.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe pan suddenly demanded attention with an angry sizzle.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh!\" Cass hurriedly reached forward to stir breakfast.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn didn't let go.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You are making this difficult.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I disagree.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass laughed again.\u0026nbsp;\n\nIt might be Toryn's favorite sound in existence.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer carefully nudged him with one elbow.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Will you at least let me finish cooking?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Toryn.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You look comfortable.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I am trying to make breakfast.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You are also wearing my shirt.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass hid a smile.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You've mentioned that.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn kissed his shoulder.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen nuzzled him again.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAt this point, Cass was laughing so much he could barely stir the pan.\u0026nbsp;\n\nEventually he turned slightly in Toryn's arms.\u0026nbsp;\n\nJust enough to look up at him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn's expression had gone soft again.\u0026nbsp;\n\nWondering.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAlmost disbelieving.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAs though he still expected to wake up somewhere else.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass's smile faded into something gentler.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You really thought this was a dream, didn't you?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn blinked.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe hadn't said that aloud.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass reached up and lightly touched his cheek.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You have that look.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"What look?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"The one you get when you're trying very hard to believe something good is real.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe words struck unexpectedly deep.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn looked at him for a long moment.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen he leaned down and kissed him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nSoft.\u0026nbsp;\n\nSlow.\u0026nbsp;\n\nA morning kiss.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass smiled against his mouth.\u0026nbsp;\n\nWhen they parted, the healer's eyes were warm.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Real enough?\" he asked softly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn looked at him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAt the sunlight.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe breakfast.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe oversized shirt.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe marks on pale skin.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe man standing comfortably in his arms.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe drew Cass a little closer.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Yes,\" he said quietly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen, because he couldn't help himself, he buried his face in the healer's hair once more.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass laughed and let him.\u0026nbsp;\n\n-\u0026nbsp;\n\nBreakfast eventually did get made.\u0026nbsp;\n\nMostly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass managed to rescue the eggs from burning only because he gently pried himself out of Toryn's arms long enough to finish cooking.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn looked personally betrayed by this development.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You are staring at me again.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I am.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass laughed softly, setting two plates onto the table.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe cottage felt different this morning.\u0026nbsp;\n\nBrighter somehow.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAs though something fundamental had shifted overnight.\u0026nbsp;\n\nPerhaps it had.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass set one plate in front of Toryn.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn smiled at him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNot his usual rare, crooked smile.\u0026nbsp;\n\nA soft one.\u0026nbsp;\n\nA happy one.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass nearly forgot his own breakfast.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"There,\" he said, sitting opposite him. \"Eat.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I am.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You are looking at me.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I can do both.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You cannot.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I absolutely can.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass shook his head, trying and failing to hide his smile.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThey began eating.\u0026nbsp;\n\nOr rather, Cass began eating.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn took approximately three bites before his tail slid beneath the table and curled loosely around Cass's ankle.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer blinked.\u0026nbsp;\n\nSlowly looked down.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen up.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn looked completely innocent.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass knew for a fact he was not.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"...What are you doing?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn continued eating.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Nothing.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Your tail is around my leg.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"It appears to be.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass laughed.\u0026nbsp;\n\nA few minutes later, he reached for his cup of tea.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn reached over at the same moment.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNot for his own cup.\u0026nbsp;\n\nFor Cass's hair.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn gently moved a lock of golden hair away from the healer's face.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen smiled to himself.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass turned pink immediately.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Toryn.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"What?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You keep… touching me.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn looked genuinely confused.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Yes.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass laughed softly.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No, I know that. I mean…\" He gestured vaguely with one hand. \"You've been doing it all morning.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn considered this.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen nodded.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Also yes.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass's smile widened.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You really are affectionate, aren't you?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn blinked.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Am I not normally?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No.\" Cass laughed. \"You spent weeks looking like you wanted to bite everyone.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I did want to bite everyone.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass snorted.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"But not affectionately.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn's mouth twitched.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No. Not affectionately.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer smiled into his tea.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThere was a small silence.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen:\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Is this normal?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn looked up.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass looked adorably serious now.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"All the…\" He gestured again. \"Nuzzling. Tail wrapping. Biting.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn nearly choked on his breakfast.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass blinked.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh dear.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No—\" Toryn coughed once. \"No, I'm fine.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You look alarmed.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I was not expecting that question.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Sorry.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No.\" He looked almost amused. \"No, it's alright.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass waited patiently.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn suddenly seemed uncertain.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHis tail remained around Cass's leg.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe looked at his plate.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen at Cass.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen away again.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"It's… normal.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass nodded.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen waited.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn sighed.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"It's normal for Dragonborn.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnother pause.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass tilted his head.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"But… not exactly like this?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn looked at him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nGods.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer was entirely too observant.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No,\" he admitted quietly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass sat up slightly.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn looked suddenly shy.\u0026nbsp;\n\nA sight so unexpected that Cass nearly forgot to breathe.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe enormous ex-soldier seemed to be carefully choosing his words.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"We're…\" He gestured vaguely. \"Tactile.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass smiled.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I've noticed.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"We scent one another.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You've definitely done that.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"We're physically affectionate with people we trust.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass's expression softened.\u0026nbsp;\n\nTrust.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThat alone warmed his chest.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"And…\" Toryn continued, becoming progressively more flustered, \"some things mean more than others.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass blinked.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"The tail?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Sometimes.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"The nuzzling?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Sometimes.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"The bites?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn looked at his breakfast as though it had betrayed him.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass's eyes widened.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nA slow blush crept across his cheeks.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn looked very interested in his tea.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"So…\" Cass said carefully, \"some of those things are reserved?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn nodded once.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"For family. Close companions.\" He hesitated. \"Someone… very dear.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nSilence.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass stared.\u0026nbsp;\n\nVery dear.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe words settled softly between them.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe cottage suddenly felt very warm.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh,\" Cass said again, much quieter this time.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn risked looking up.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass was pink.\u0026nbsp;\n\nVery pink.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn felt his own face warming.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You didn't tell me.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I was trying to.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"When?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"The entire morning.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass laughed.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No, you weren't.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I truly was.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You were busy nuzzling me.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I can do two things at once.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass laughed harder.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe sound made Toryn smile helplessly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer's cheeks remained delightfully red.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"So…\" he said softly, \"all of that means I am…\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe trailed off.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn's expression gentled immediately.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHis tail tightened just slightly around Cass's leg.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You are very dear to me.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nSilence.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass looked at him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nReally looked at him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe morning sunlight.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe oversized shirt he was wearing.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe breakfast.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe warm tail around his ankle.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe shy honesty in emerald eyes.\u0026nbsp;\n\nVery dear.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNobody had said something like that to him in a very long time.\u0026nbsp;\n\nPossibly ever.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Toryn…\" he whispered.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn suddenly seemed nervous.\u0026nbsp;\n\nWhich was somehow even more endearing.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass smiled.\u0026nbsp;\n\nSoftly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen reached across the table and placed his hand over Toryn's.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe ex-soldier looked down at it immediately.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen back at him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass's expression had gone impossibly warm.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I think you're very dear to me too.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn stopped breathing.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCompletely.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHis tail went rigid.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHis eyes widened slightly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass looked alarmed.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh dear. Was that wrong?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe answer came immediately.\u0026nbsp;\n\nFar too quickly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn looked almost stunned.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen, slowly, his entire expression softened into something so openly happy that it made Cass's heart ache.\u0026nbsp;\n\nWithout warning, the Dragonborn stood.\u0026nbsp;\n\nWalked around the table.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnd gently nuzzled the top of Cass's head.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass burst into helpless laughter.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"There it is again.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I can't help it.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You really can't, can you?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass laughed until tears threatened.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnd somehow, despite the ridiculousness of it all, he leaned into the affection anyway while Toryn stood there smiling, his tail still wrapped around the healer's leg as though it had no intention of letting go.\u0026nbsp;\n\n-\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe warmth of breakfast lingered long after the plates had been cleared.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNeither of them seemed in any hurry to disturb the quiet peace that had settled over the little cottage.\u0026nbsp;\n\nUnfortunately, the morning had other plans.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass glanced toward the window.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"The sun's getting high.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn followed his gaze.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"...It is.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You'll be late for the forge.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I might.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass folded his arms, trying to look stern.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Master Hallik will not appreciate you abandoning him.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn considered this.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"He has other workers.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass laughed.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You cannot simply decide not to go because you'd rather stay here.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I can.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You shouldn't.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn sighed with theatrical reluctance.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I know.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe remained exactly where he was.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass waited.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"So...\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"So?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"...Aren't you leaving?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"In a moment.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnother long pause.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass tilted his head.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Toryn.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Hm?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"...Are you pouting?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn looked genuinely scandalized.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I do not pout.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass raised an eyebrow.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You are absolutely pouting.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I am not.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You've been staring mournfully at the door for the past five minutes.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I have been evaluating it.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"For what?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"...Its doorness.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass burst into laughter.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Toryn!\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn tried to maintain his dignity.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Dragonborn do not pout.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass smiled with unmistakable mischief.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"So that little frown isn't pouting?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"It is disappointment.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"And the sighing?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Resignation.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"And the way your tail has wrapped around my chair because you apparently intend to drag me with you?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn glanced down.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHis tail had indeed curled securely around one leg of Cass's chair.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"...That was subconscious.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass laughed so hard he had to wipe tears from his eyes.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I've never met anyone so determined to prove they aren't pouting.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I maintain that I am not.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You are adorable.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I am fearsome.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Mhm.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I have frightened hardened mercenaries.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"And this morning you're sulking because you have to go to work.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I am not sulking.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass reached over and gently booped the end of Toryn's snout with one finger.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You are.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn looked deeply offended.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass smiled so brightly that the Dragonborn's resolve lasted all of three seconds before he smiled back.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You're impossible,\" Toryn muttered.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"So I've been told.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnother comfortable silence settled.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen Cass looked down at himself.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"...Oh.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn followed his gaze.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass was still wearing his oversized shirt.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer looked up sheepishly.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I suppose...\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I do need that back.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass nodded.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I'll just—\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nBefore he could finish, Toryn stepped forward with a grin that Cass had learned usually meant trouble.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"What are you smiling about?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Nothing.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I don't believe you.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You shouldn't.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass took one cautious step backward.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Toryn...\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Dragonborn reached for the loose sleeve.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass dodged with a laugh.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh no.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh yes.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Toryn!\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nWhat followed could hardly be called a wrestling match.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass was simply too small to truly compete with a Dragonborn built like a fortress.\u0026nbsp;\n\nStill, he made an admirable effort, laughing as he twisted away whenever Toryn caught one sleeve, only to lose the other. They stumbled around the cottage, bumping into chairs and narrowly missing the table, until Cass finally found himself gently but thoroughly trapped against the wall by a grinning Dragonborn.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I surrender,\" Cass said between laughs.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"A wise decision.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nWith careful, unhurried movements, Toryn eased the oversized shirt over Cass's head.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe fabric caught briefly in his hair before coming free.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass stood blinking.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHis cheeks flushed.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn's smile faded into quiet awe.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe healer folded his arms instinctively across his bare chest, suddenly aware of how vulnerable he felt beneath Toryn's gaze.\u0026nbsp;\n\nFor a heartbeat, neither of them spoke.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn's emerald eyes softened.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe stepped closer.\u0026nbsp;\n\nVery slowly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nGiving Cass every chance to step away.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass didn't.\u0026nbsp;\n\nInstead, he closed the remaining distance himself.\u0026nbsp;\n\nTheir bare chests met as Toryn gathered him into a gentle embrace.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass rested his forehead against Toryn's for a moment.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You really don't want to leave,\" he whispered.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"No.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn kissed him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nSlowly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nDeeply.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNot with urgency, but with affection that seemed to pour into the kiss until words became unnecessary.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass answered just as gently, one hand settling against the Dragonborn's shoulder.\u0026nbsp;\n\nWhen they finally drew apart, they lingered close, smiling in that quiet, almost disbelieving way that still seemed new to both of them.\u0026nbsp;\n\nReluctantly, Toryn pulled the shirt over his own head.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass watched him with open admiration.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"It suits you better,\" Cass admitted.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn chuckled.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I should hope so.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You look very handsome.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe compliment caught Toryn completely off guard.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe cleared his throat.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"...Thank you.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass smiled to himself, clearly pleased he'd managed to fluster the normally stoic Dragonborn for once.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAt last, there were no more excuses.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn collected his gloves, fastened his belt, and picked up the small satchel he'd left near the door the night before.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe rested one hand on the latch.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThen stopped.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe looked back.\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass was standing by the hearth, sunlight catching in his long golden hair.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHome.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe word came to Toryn's mind so naturally it startled him.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe wanted to cross the room again.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe wanted to tell Cass everything.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThat he'd been quietly falling in love with him since the day a shy healer offered tea to a lonely stranger.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThat every evening apart already felt too long.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThat waking beside him had been the happiest morning he could remember.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe words rose to his lips.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I...\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass looked at him expectantly.\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn's heart hammered.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNot yet.\u0026nbsp;\n\nNot because the feeling wasn't true.\u0026nbsp;\n\nBecause he wanted to say it when he could give it the weight it deserved.\u0026nbsp;\n\nInstead, a fond smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Don't disappear into the woods without telling me again.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass laughed softly.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I won't.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I'm serious.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I know.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass walked over and took one of Toryn's hands.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I'll tell you.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn squeezed it gently.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Good.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nCass rose onto his toes and brushed a quick kiss across the Dragonborn's cheek.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Have a good day at the forge.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nToryn smiled—a smile that seemed impossible for the man he had been only a few weeks before.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I'll see you this evening.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"I'll be waiting.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThose five simple words carried Toryn through the cottage door and all the way toward the forge, where, for the first time in years, the end of the workday was something he couldn't wait to reach.\u0026nbsp;","series":{"name":"Ash and Song","previous":"https://fse.anthro.fr/stories/nKr29NPm-ash-and-song-chapter-nine.json"}}