by Kirby Crow
Aleyn swallowed and his heart leapt in hope. “Who says I won't be?"
Ranulf's eyes narrowed. “Do not play, my sweet prisoner, my thief. You have already stolen my heart. Do not rob me of my pride as well."
Aleyn ducked his head and pressed a lingering kiss to Ranulf's palm. “I'm not playing,” he breathed.
"You would give up your freedom, give up returning to your home?” He smiled and caressed Aleyn's lower lip with his thumb. “Not that I object."
"Oh, I'm keeping my freedom,” Aleyn said smartly, but inside him he felt like the sun was filling up his chest. Joy was a new emotion to him. “We'd best settle that right away."
Ranulf drew him slowly into his arms. The fire had died down to embers and the afternoon was growing cool. He reached out and felt around on the floor for Aleyn's pack, drawing forth the raven banner that had fluttered proudly over the Lymskyr. He spread it over Aleyn's bare body.
"There,” Ranulf said with satisfaction, his blue eyes bright with happiness. “Now I have claimed you, as I said I would."
Aleyn's fingers caressed the rich fabric. “Prisoner of the raven,” he murmured thoughtfully.
"No, Aleyn,” Ranulf said gently. “I do not claim you as thraell, but as family. You are free, my love.” He pulled Aleyn closer against his body. “We both are."
-end—
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