I tense at his answer, because that shouldn't even be a choice. Leaving shouldn't even being an option. Not for his duty, the honor of the line he's been adopted into, and not if he still loves me.

He wraps me in his arms again, and I lean into his warmth, starved for his affection after so long without it. "How could I ever be happy without you?"

I pull back just slightly, though not out of his arms. I reach up and gently cup his cheeks, and then lean in to press our foreheads, to brush out noses together. "I've pledged my life to you, I've sworn my name to your line. I won't say I'll die for you, because I know you don't want to hear that, but... but I will go with you to meet death someday, side by side, if you will allow me."

I sniffle softly, doing my best to keep my tears in check. "You are my Lord."

I kiss him, letting it linger before pulling back again. "You are the other half of my heart and soul."