Sansa Stark was very busy the night before her father departed south. Her mother was unfortunately in no state to give father a proper send off or spend some time alone with her him and she could see the strain and sadness reflecting in his grey eyes as a result. The Stark girl had spent many a night in her fathers solar giving advice on going south. Her biggest issue was trying to make the honourable Ned Stark to bend his rigid views of honour and justice. She loved her father and in many ways, did not want him to wield on his ideals... but it is impossible to be Hand of the King and run a realm with such ideals.
On the last night together her father looked weary but determined as they supped together and they spoke about everything.
"I see. I thank you for your advice and will heed your warnings Sansa but this is my responsibilities and I do not want you getting too entrenched in the politics of the South" Ned Stark sighed and rubbed his face wearily.
The young Lady nodded sadly but did not dispute him as he was only trying to protect her.
"Before you leave... I must broach a sensitive topic with you father" She began quietly.
Her father huffed some laughter and looked at her with amusement, "Now I am very concerned at what you consider to be a sensitive subject matter" His tone of voice wry. Sansa couldn't help but blush. She had been extremely honest with her father since her return and thinking back, she had probably broached every topic imaginable with him. Beheadings, green-dreams, politics, Littlefingers brothel businesses, her revenge on the Prince with Arya... which shockingly resulting in deep joyous laughter that she did not expect from her father, the dishonouring on her Aunt Lysa... By the old gods, that is so embarrassing.
Her father snorted as he took a sip of water, "No need to be shy now Sansa, we Stark's are not exactly known for skirting around important issues or being vague. If it makes you feel better I value your honesty and direct approach. It is a trait you share with the Starks but fortunately, you also have your mothers unwavering sense of propriety" The Lord of Winterfell gave a very small but fond smile.
Sansa couldn't help but smile back, extremely pleased.
"Well it is mostly small issues. People will be watching you and wary as they do not know if you will usurp or damage their own position" She began.
Her father sighed, "Yes Sansa I am aware that I am not to investigate the death of Jon Arryn or it may cause me my head" He repeated what she had informed him off before.
Sansa sucked in the sharp breath, "Do not be so blunt with such things father, I can't bare it" She said quietly before beginning again, memories flashing in her mind of watching him killed the first time around, "But I just wanted to inform you that you should make it look like you are investigating it but then find there was no foul play. In fact, I would wonder if you would visit a young blacksmith apprentice named Gendry Waters and send him up to Winterfell" She asked, inspiration striking her again.
Ned Stark furrowed his brows, "Oh, that is quite a usual and specific request to make" He inquired without directly asking.
"Yes, you will see why once you meet him. I believe he is a bastard son of the king, I do not think that any ill will befall him in the capital but the Queen is very unpredictable..." She trailed off unnecessarily.
Her father simply nodded his head seriously.
"There is also something you will discover when you return south. Ser Jorah Mormont is, or will very soon be acting as a spy across the Narrow Sea to keep the small council informed of the last two surviving Targaryens"
Sansa's heart sped up at the information she told and closely watched her fathers face for signs of... something at her declaration. For all her 'directness' to, her father there has been one topic that seemed too taboo to reveal to him.
Jon.
Sansa had taken a huge risk in sending that raven. She had the fortune of knowing exactly where Dany was at this moment in time and there was seemingly no sure way to know if the note could remain secret. Unless of course, you were from the future and knew ways. The note was not directed or addressed to her friend outwardly and had many stops before reaching it's destination. The biggest and riskiest was to Citadel where it would make it's journey across the Narrow sea, completely guarded. The Stark name held weight and was known to be trustworthy so her note would be personally delivered by a loyal and illiterate young boy that was under her employ she had known from her previous life.
Of course, she had started to gain allies and employed people to work for her or under the Stark name rather. The Starks, though not ostentatiously wealthy, still had a considerable amount of gold and she used this to her advantage. Nothing that was even noticeable – though still approved of by her father and Maester Luwin of course – but to the average peasant meant a warm meal and bed. Sansa was not a noble that overlooked the usefulness and loyalty of peasants as it was all about correctly judging the individual.
She had the advantage of knowing many people from her previous life.
The young Lady took many precautions with the letter, even writing in High Valaryian as she knew Dany's brother did not bother to learn the language like she did. Regardless, it was still a huge risk, especially to Jon but Sansa had many contingency plans arranged should the worst happen.
In the end, the risk of not building an amiable relationship immediately with the future Queen is more disastrous for herself and her kin more so than sending the letter. Once her vile brother was dead, Ser Jorah Mormont monitored and controlled to some extent by her father and Dany learns Dothraki then correspondence will be much easier to maintain as she was fortunate enough to have learned from the Queen herself. She would need to find a loyal ally in Citadel which would be difficult as sending a boy back and forth across the narrow sea to send her letters was dangerous, risky and impractical.
Sansa and Dany had bonded and truly become friends as in many ways they were similar. Forced to wed against their will, though the Queens outcome was better than her own. Strong, intelligent women who were tired of being subservient. The young Stark was in a fragile state in the Vale and even her own brother brought fear to her heart. Dany showed nothing compassion towards her. Even though she was a Stark, married to a Lannister. It was a miracle she wasn't stripped of her titles and imprisoned for the rest of her life. This time around, she did not have these advantages so cultivating and aiding the future Queen was necessary. Especially before she gains an inch of power and Dany becomes suspicious of her motives. Despite the risks, it had to be done.
If all else fails, her brother will need to flee to the free cities and perhaps herself where he would be welcomed by his Aunt. That she was sure of. Though the Riverlands and North would stand by her and even her father over the King. Perhaps even Dorne once the truth is revealed but war at this time was another headache she couldn't handle. The repercussions should she fail were huge but the possible outcomes of not acting immediately were too horrific to think of.
Sansa needed to ensure the future and prosperity of her family. This was the only way.
The young Lady snapped back from her thoughts at her father's comment, "I see. I assume you know my feelings on the matter but are going to ask me to do something I am uncomfortable with regardless?" He spoke seriously but with a hint of mirth.
Sansa blushed and smiled a little sheepishly, "Perhaps..." She hinted.
Her father leaned back in his hair again and made a motion of his hands for her to continue, "I believe that you should begin to write him also. The King may try to send assassins to kill the Targaryens – his hatred is legendary – and you should possibly write him and ask that he protect them from any possible dangers and keep you informed, in return, he may have the possibility of returning home"
Her father frowned and was immediately about the object when she cut in, "-I know father that you disagree but I am simply suggesting that years down the line, if he gives you years of faithful and loyal service – from across the Narrow Sea - that he may return to the North with his honour intact. What he did was shameful, not only to himself but to his kin. I am not saying he may return and fully restored but... maybe give him the opportunity to restore his honour and join his family again. If he proves himself, give him a chance father, please. If not for himself but for his family who has always loyally served House Stark" Sansa finished passionately, feeling slightly wrong for trying to manipulate her father.
Lord Stark simply regarded her thoughtfully for several long moments. She did not waver in her convictions and showed her father this on her face
Ned nodded his head reluctantly, "I shall consider this and at the least directly correspond with the man. He shamed not only himself but House Mormont, especially by fleeing to the free cities. I will keep you updated but I am afraid I can promise you no more"
Sansa smiled brightly to her father and internally felt a sigh of relief.
The rest of their conversation with idle and small matters. Such as finally receiving a reply from Lord Tarth and his acceptance of Brienne coming to aid in Winterfell. It was an honour of course and Sansa was very excited to officially meet Brienne again. Arya would love her, she knew. With Meera Ried, Brienne Tarth and Arya she would be the odd Lady out by not being as strong willed and more feminine than them. She couldn't wait to tell Arya about the sword lessons.
Lady Sansa enjoyed her last evening with her father, relishing in his company. It was peaceful and she regretting having not known her father as well as she previously thought. It was a bitter-sweet night but the young Lady was simply relieved things were coming together at last.
Sansa stood outside in the courtyard for a breath of fresh air to clear her mind and calm her heart. Men were busy packing and rushing around, no one noticed the young Lady leaning on the side of the castle wall, seeking peace. Although it was loud and noisy, no one seemed to even glance at her for a change, giving her a desperately needed moment along.
Today was the day her father would ride south. Alone. Sansa had a great feeling of trepidation all morning as the reality and fear began to sink into her gut. Yes, she was knowledgeable of the future but the first time her father rode south, he died and she couldn't help but worry this was the last time she would see him again.
The one upside to the day was the progression with her sister Arya. The Stark sisters it seemed had finally found common ground in mocking their esteemed guests, in particular one Prince Joffrey. The red haired girl was ashamed to admit she did not realise how smart her younger sister was and found it difficult to keep in the laughter as she came up with some rather creative insults. In return, Sansa showed Arya the 'polite' way to mock and humiliate somebody. By putting them down. Arya said it was stupid because it was just acting better and more stuck up than the other person but Sansa was slowly teaching her sister the rules and nuances of court life. It shamed her that Arya had not been properly taught but instead was mostly reprimanded to be more subservient. The one thing she would never be. The girls were still dancing around each other to establish a proper relationship but their bickering was more in jest now and the girls were definitely closer.
Most of this was thanks to Jon. As the Stark sisters were often found with their 'bastard brother' when they all had free time. Oh gods, Jon was leaving, Sansa felt the familiar dull ache of loss settling into her chest. Sansa knew that she would see her brother again, she had to. He had a destiny to fulfil with Dany and she knew he would be safe. He would change however. Jon has a long, lonesome and difficult journey ahead of him and will become the amazing man he is fated to be. Sansa only wished his journey wasn't as tragic. We are a product of our experiences and Jon will need to have his.
These macabre thoughts were consuming her as she idly watched the men work.
"Someone is looking every inch the brooding Stark" An amused voice spoke from her left. Sansa looked up dully, seeing the smirking Kingslayer in all his gilded glory.
She was unsurprised to see the knight as she hadn't come across him since their agreement on becoming allies. They had yet to discuss anything concrete and today was the last day before he departed. It was a good sign that he hadn't forgotten not so much he had put it off until today.
"Ser Jaime, shouldn't you be busy helping your men?" She questioned calmly, ignoring his rude comment.
The man seemed to pause, eyebrows raised and giving her a considering look before speaking, "My strengths do not lie in aiding men pack, Lady Sansa. Evidently, I am more a hindrance than anything else"
Lady Sansa smiled in amusement, looking the man directly into his deep green eyes, "I believe you" She replied solemnly.
The man chuckled charmingly and offered his arm gallantly for her to take, "If I may, we have some things to discuss My Lady" The Lannister Knight said formally but quietly. The Stark girl noted the looks some were giving the pair and nodded shortly but declined his arm with a look.
"You wound me, Lady Sansa" Ser Jaime declared with a smirk as they began walking casually away from the busy courtyard around the back of the castle, still in public but not in the public eye.
The young Lady simply rolled her eyes, "I think your head is big enough to withstand the blow, Sunshine" She retorted.
Sansa noted he seemed to give her a sidelong grin, "There is the frosty, haughty little pup I know and tolerate. I had wondered where you had scampered off to. I hadn't taken you for the type to wallow is sorrow when their are things to be done" He remarked casually.
The Lady sighed in exasperation, "I am allowed a moment or two to worry and fret over the fate of my father, thank you very much Sunshine. I have been intolerably busy since the King's arrival and was enjoying a moment of peace until you arrived" Sansa complained, wishing she had more time to herself before her duties demanded her attention.
The knight hummed casually as they strolled at a more leisurely pace and stopped at a quiet opening near the forest where it was unlikely they would be interrupted or disturbed.
"I actually agree with you little pup. A little relaxation does wonders for the soul" The golden knight sent her a charming grin that would have sent her previous self blushing.
But now she just smiled back amusedly and decided to get to the point, "Is there a particular reason you have sought me out on this very busy morning, Ser Jaime?" She questioned redundantly, already knowing but prompting him to be direct.
The Kingsguard member sent her a look and turned his back to her to casually stroll around the small clearing, "You were correct when you said you have been intolerably busy recently. For a child you have an amazingly busy schedule, you appear to make time for everything" He began conversationally.
Lady Sansa raised her eyebrows, "I was not aware you desired my company so much"
The knight scoffed and ignored her comment before continuing, "Imagine my surprise when this little pup, despite making multiple meetings and private conversations with her father, did not have time to inform him of the attempted murder of his son, your own brother. I find that very odd though I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. You Stark's don't seem to go back on your words now, do you?" He mused as he leant casually on a tree, green eyes now boring into hers,
Sansa knew the game he was trying to play and smiled slightly back at the man and mirrored his casual demeanour, "Is there a point you are trying to make, Ser?" She prompted, only receiving an oddly contemplative look that was more common in the new Jaime from the future and not this old arrogant knight.
"You are strange. You do not behave your age. You are wise beyond your years. You are very much Stark at times but act as if you have been playing the game for years. It is unsettling. I do not know your motives and yet you seem to be completely trustworthy. The idea of a Stark trusting a Lannister is ludicrous but you have not yet thrown me to the gallows, which you could have done in your position and I believe you are aware of this fact. I would like to know your motives before I agree to aid you"
Lady Sansa was a little surprised by this statement. She had misjudged the eldest Lannister boy and now was reassessing the situation. He was a lot more shrewd that she had thought. Nowhere near Tyrion but his common sense was undeniable. Stronger than his sister, that's for certain.
Sansa decided honesty was the best policy, "You say that I have a power in this situation when if you step back and think about it, I truly do not" She said quietly, the knight approached her obviously very curious.
"Look at me, I am not yet two and ten years old. I am a Stark but I wield no sword, I have no power, nothing to protect my family. I took a huge gamble, for all your suspicion of me I have thrice the reason to feel that way about you. I am different, yes, I am smarter and wiser than my years but that is uncommon and no reason to distrust me. I did not tell me father and I don't intend to. I will do everything and anything to protect my family and that includes ignoring my pride and dignity and asking a Lannister for help. I cannot offer you much except perhaps understanding and the hope I may aid you again in the future. I am not asking you to commit treason, just watch out for my father down south and do what you can to protect him. I know you dislike him which is why no one will suspect you to be protecting him. Keep me updated on his activities and the feel of court, any enemies he will unknowingly make"
Sansa paused here and saw Ser Jaime's eyes sparkling with deep thought like his younger brothers did when assessing a situation carefully. She felt a pang of longing at the thought, how she missed her husband.
"We will both benefit from this agreement but for it to began we must have a little mutual understanding and trust. I have proven to be trustworthy and you have not. I do not have time or the patience to continue convincing you. If you wish to halt this then let me know and we will never speak of it again" Sansa finished seriously, hoping not. She had put most of her hopes within the knight knowing how resourceful he could be and would need to reconsider another path to take if it did not work.
The knight nodded his head and spoke in a serious tone, "I agree then My Lady, for the mutual benefit to both ourselves and our houses. It will do nobody good for the North and West to be at ends"
Sansa released the tension in both of her shoulders and smiled honestly at the man in front of her, her future brother in law.
The knight smiled back, though it was more of a smirk but it was still progress.
He began speaking, "I can write to you but I suggest finding a way to keep our correspondence private. Do not under any circumstances send your letters to the Red Keep for they will be spied upon. Send your raven to the Great Sept of Baelor addressed to Garrett Waters"
Sansa nodded her head seriously and considered for a moment, "It will be fine for you to address your letters to Lady Sansa as I have made a prior agreement with my Maester to guard and not read any letters sent to me-" The Stark girl was pleased she had already considered this. After sending her dangerous Raven out to Dany, she had given terse and specific orders to Maester Luwin to not read and immediately inform her of any letters addressed to her. Although if Dany replied it would not be by Raven but by messenger, it still reminded her to do this. The Maester was curious but if anyone understood and adapted to the changes in her character it was him. Sansa had helped and worked with the man since Bran's fall and he now addressed and consulted her as he did her mother. It was refreshing and a relief as she knew him to be trustworthy.
The knight scoffed as she spoke "-however, it is will ease your suspicions, you may address the letters to Jon Snow and they will be kept aside to be forwarded to the Wall"
Ser Jaime Lannister held his hand out for her to take, "Well then, Lady Sansa, lets hope this is the beginning of a mutually beneficial and interesting new relationship" He stated with gleaming green eyes and golden hair artfully hanging down his face.
Lady Sansa took his hand, gauntlet covered and all and nodded in agreement, "Yes, let's pray this works" she agreed.
The pair then began making their way back towards the castle, chatting idly or rather Ser Jaime attempting to annoy the Stark girl when she suddenly remembered something.
"Oh, Ser Jaime, I have my first bit of information for you that you may find useful" Sansa tried not to but smirked in a very Tyrion like fashion before looking at her future brother-in-law.
Ser Jaime stopped abruptly and blinked before grinning broadly and devilishly, "Oh? Pray tell me, I am dying to hear little pup"
Sansa tried to keep the smirk from stretching but said airily, "There is a plot brewing down south as we speak... I have heard that the Tyrell's and Lord Renly have come up with a way to try and take power away from the Lannisters" She began, picking her words carefully.
Immediately, Ser Jaime's demeanour completely changed and he became uncharacteristically serious, "I see. What plot? What do you know?"
Sansa considered her words before speaking, "I do not know. I do not believe their intentions are deliberately malicious towards House Lannister but that their goals may become problematic for you. Before you inquire again, no, I am not aware of the details of this plot only that they are preparing a trip to Kings Landing after you return south. It would perhaps be in your best interest to keep an eye on Lord Renly and do what you can to prevent this trip, maybe?" She pushed, knowing for all his intelligence, Ser Jaime was not much of a player.
The Knight nodded seriously and gave her a considering look again but this time his green eyes held a certain amount of... fondness?
"I see. I believe I must then thank you, My Lady for all your pleading for help it seems to be you that is being more beneficial to me. I will take this to heart. This trip north has certainly been... enlightening. You are truly like no one I have ever come across before Lady Sansa" A puzzled look continued to grow on his handsome features but fortunately not a suspicious one.
Sansa smiled genuinely, "I shall take that as compliment, ser"
Immediately, the knights demeanour changed into something more playful, "You should. Never had I met such a dazzling, intelligent and painfully beautiful young lady" He then winked at her and bent down to kiss her hand.
Sansa rolled her eyes at his exaggerated compliments but was caught off guard by the voice that spoke from behind her.
"Be careful or Lord Stark may catch you trying bewitching his daughter, I fear that nothing you can do will keep your head on your shoulders this time. Where would I be then, hm? What would I do without my big brother to protect me?" An amused and very familiar voice said as he walked into eye sight.
Tyrion.
Immediately, her heart lurched and throat dried. Her husband. She had been so busy she hadn't had time to miss him but seeing him today was only a painful reminder that he was leaving...
The golden Knight gasped and turned towards her, appearing affronted, "Do you hear this Lady Sansa? Such a selfish and heartless creature my brother is" turning back towards Tyrion was an amused face he said, "Do you care nothing for my undying devotion for this wonderful young lady? Perhaps they will write songs about us, The Kingslayer and the Red wolf. Such a tragic tale that-" Ser Jaime was picking up enthusiasm but Sansa was starting to feel frustrated and worried at the volume of his voice as people were still milling around.
"-Tragic indeed if my father ever hears of this. Or for myself, if you continue this spiel I may loose my fast" She sharply cut in with an unamused look to the knight.
Jaime Lanniser looked a little surprised at her before both he and Tyrion broke into chuckles that were definitely drawing attention. Sansa turned her head to see Jory approaching her with a frown on his face as if to intervene, she shook her head subtly to tell him that she was fine. The guard stopped, frowned deeper then walked away, no doubt to inform her father.
Her husb- future husband as it stood - approached further and Sansa tried not to visibly show her distress. She must look tried and had not taken as much effort with her hair this morning and no doubt the wind had been at it. Her gown was plain and she most likely looked unremarkable.
Tyrion's eyes were on her, deep and curious but there was a lightness that suggested fondness or something akin to it. It made her heart swell and crack all the same. His hair was messy but clothes sharp. He looked wonderful.
"Oh dear Jaime, I fear we have finally found a young lady that does not seem to fall for your charms. You may actually need to put some effort if you wish to steal this delightful young lady's heart" Tyrion said amusedly.
Sansa's heart did a double take at the near compliment paid to her by Tyrion but her stomach flopped uncomfortably at him speaking of her with his brother, even in jest.
Sansa sent a pleading look towards Tyrion, "Please do not encourage him, my lord, I beg of you" She tried to look comically horrified and even shuddered at the wink Ser Jaime sent her.
Her husband merely chuckled, "I am afraid we Lannisters are not known for our mercy, my dear-" Sansa's heart must have leapt to her throat in joy at the endearment - "Though perhaps I may make a bargain. I shall save you from the lecherous old knight if you will accompany me on a walk to the battlements. I am quite small you see and often get lost, it is hard to have a sense of direction from down here" His mouth smirked a little but eyes were open and taking her in.
Sansa knew he was jesting as he had an excellent sense of direction and could read maps quite excellently but nodded with a touch of fear and excitement at the prospect of speaking alone with Tyrion. Although not as her husband yet, she still missed being in his presence. He always made her happy.
What did he want? Part of her prayed that he wanted to form some sort of relationship? Or friendship before she was of age and she could begin trying to make him fall for her. Another part worried at this because if they were friends then he may never see her in the romantic sense. They could at least keep in contact as she was doing with his brother. Surely that would be innocent enough. No, it wouldn't be. It was the smarter decision to keep him at arms length until she was of age.
Sansa saw Ser Jaime raise his eyebrows in surprise before looking at something off in the distance. The Stark girl turned to see the Whore Queen herself emerge from the castle in a long beautiful gown. It made her feel all the more self-conscious. No doubt Tyrion was accustomed to such beauty and opulence on a regular basis. Strangely the woman was not in the company of her two youngest children and Sansa felt a pit of dread settle in her stomach at the thought of Cersei seeing her with her brothers.
It seemed this danger was very real as Ser Jaime seemed to perk up and turned to her, "I can see when I have lost. I shall forever mourn what could have been and subject myself to a life of misery and loneliness. I bow out with grace and dignity, knowing it shall never be. Good day Lady Sansa" He spoke eloquently but also quickly and edged away before hurriedly moving towards his twin.
It was just in time as the Queen turned around, noticed her brother and an almost sneer settled into her beautiful face. Sansa did not envy Ser Jaime at the moment.
Sansa was silent with the youngest Lannister for a moment or two before saying quietly, "Not very brave, is he, My Lord?" She commented as they watched Ser Jaime clearly pleading and taking the shit that the Queen was giving him. She looked disgusted and furious whilst he looked contrite and... accepting. There was no doubt who was in charge.
Again, the small man chuckled, "Bravery is also something no one could accuse of a Lannister" Was all he said.
Sansa immediately pushed down the impulse to object and declare he was the bravest man she'd known.
The pair walked quietly, Sansa unaware of the unwavering and deeply fixated gaze following her and taking her in. The pair walked slowly, no one paying them much mind. The walk wasn't far and Sansa had so many things she wanted to say but knew how unwise it would be. She couldn't let her emotions rule her, she needed to be patient.
"I have come to thank you My Lady" Tyrion began, quite pleasantly. Sansa felt at home listening to the rich tone of his voice and tried not to smile.
"Oh? I do not deserve your gratitude, I'm sure" the eldest Stark girl frowned a tiny bit of confusion. Her eyes moved to the man at her side and he nodded almost minusculely.
"Oh I believe that you do. I am not quite sure why you have decided to aid me but either way I felt it necessary to convey my thanks to you" He repeated and Sansa was becoming more confused. What had she done?
Sansa stopped walking as they had reached their destination and looked towards Tyrion. He was assessing her, which amused and unsettled her all the same.
"I am afraid I do not understand, My Lord" She said, feeling quite foolish.
Tyrion Lannister only raised his eyebrows a little and tilted his head, "I would hope you would not assume me to be a fool, My Lady. I am well aware of your intervention with your father and your proposal to give me a position in the small council"
Sansa was shell-shocked. How did he know this? "D-did my father tell you..." She began, a little out of breath, knowing her eyes had widened and lips parted in shock. To a normal person, she would look surprised but she knew her husband was taking in every nuance of her reaction. This was not good.
Sansa saw a little self satisfaction coming from the man next to her, "Of course not but it was not difficult to figure out. You are the only Stark I have properly spoken to and I haven't exactly been endearing myself to the people of the North. The only amiable conversation I have had is with you and then days later I receive a private audience with the Lord of Winterfell himself and he looking for allies and suddenly my name is on the top of this list"
Sansa was again shocked, how obvious was she? Of course Tyrion would put the dots together, it was the only rational situation. The Lannister was not quite suspicious of her but was definitely curious and she had somehow drawn attention to herself. But how? Was she behaving so unusually?
"Oh... I see" She mumbled, feeling completely thrown off. Sansa thought some very unladylike words of herself inside her head for being so caught off guard and not handling the situation well. She wasn't accustomed to wearing her armour around Tyrion and now it was showing.
Sansa kept her gaze firmly on the ground when she felt Tyrion step closer, her breath hitched and heart stuttered at his almost inappropriate distance.
"My Lady, it is not my intention to frighten you" He began in a soft voice that wrapped around her like an embrace, making her long for his arms to be around her, "I am simply curious and honestly a little impressed that you managed to convince the honourable Lord Stark to put a little trust in a Lannister. That is quite an impressive feat" He did sound impressed but she knew he was also trying to flatter her to cheer her up.
It worked, she chuckled a little and looked up to his painfully squashed but beautiful face that was all hers. His features were relaxed and soft, his eyes gentle and she would give anything for a simple kiss.
"Thank you, My Lord but it is all you I'm afraid. My father listens to my council but makes his own judgement. He is willing to offer you a chance, Lannister or not. I'm afraid he will never be too fond of your brother" She explained and Tyrion smiled a little at the obvious statement.
Of course Ned Stark would never like Jaime Lannister. He barely tolerated him.
"That is quite the high praise. May I ask why you have decided to intervene?" He inquired and as Sansa looked she saw that he was honestly completely baffled. It was a little amusing but heartbreaking all the same. Tyrion was always excellent at understanding others but even now he had no idea why she would even help him. It was heart-breaking and an eye-opener to her.
"Honestly?" She said and at his nod continued, gathering her courage, "I like you" She said simply.
There was a look on non-comprehension on Tyrion's face so she hastened to explained, "I like you. I think that you're smart. Sensible, adaptable, well-read and well-versed in southern politics. You worked for your father aiding with the sewage at Casterly Rock and done an excellent job so I hear. You have always excelled at what you've done and you have strengths that my father does not possess. He needs allies in the south but isn't the man to seek them out. I was hoping if he aided you, you would aid him back because you seem like the type of man that wouldn't forget a kind deed. I wish I could tell you more for you seem like a rational man but truthfully I just like you. I think that you're quite capable of handling yourself and your funny, kind and do not take yourself too seriously... I like you" Sansa finished with a small smile and it was Tyrion Lannisters turn to look shell-shocked.
It took him longer than it usually did to gather his wits but when he did he looked much lighter but also vaguely confused.
"I see then I definitely do not deserve your praise. Though I cannot fault you for looking for someone to help you father. I can tell that he is a good man and I swear I shall do what I can to aid him. Your interference was very kind and... most unusual but Lord Stark has given me a wonderful opportunity, one a do not intend to squander. Highly unusual but extremely shrewd of you to begin to cultivate a relationship between the Starks and Lannisters. Maiden knows there is no love lost between our Houses. You have my eternal gratitude and hope you will not hesitate to call upon me if you are in need of any help" He said seriously. Sansa knew this was less to do with her speaking with her father and more that she was being kind to him. It made her feel ill that Tyrion didn't know how wonderful and incredible he was truly was.
Sansa smiled a bright, blinding smile to the smaller man before her. The height distance wasn't as great at it will become and knew it was wrong but couldn't resist.
Lady Sansa Stark kneeled down on the ground and gave her future husband a hug. It was not completely inappropriate though to someone she was unacquainted and alone with it most definitely was. Sansa relished in the feel of his warm body in her arms and Tyrions musky, clean scent that always made her feel at home. She felt his heart beat and though it did not last long it felt like an imprint was made on her soul. They would be together eventually. He was her destiny, in this world and the next.
His shortened arms moved and touched her shoulders gently, almost reverently in return and Sansa resisted moving her hands to feel what she knew to be strong, supple muscle.
Sansa moved back and looked at his face which was surprised, warm and something else in his eyes she couldn't identify. She knew she was behaved inappropriately so decided not to linger. It didn't look like Tyrion would have a response either way.
Standing up again, she sorted her gown to rights and gave Tyrion one last warm and affectionate smile before wandering off and leaving him behind her.
Sansa tried very hard to keep out of her mind this was the last time she would see him in years but failed spectacularly as tears raced with warmth from her eyes and her hands began to shake. Sansa was a Stark, the blood of Stark and Tully and would not allow Tyrion to see her pain. Her head held high and she walked with dignity and grace befitting her station. He would not see the tears streaming endlessly down her cheeks or hear her laboured breaths. He would admire her and not think of her as weak this time, no she was a wolf and would not allow this to cripple her.
Sansa would see him again and when she did he would be hers.