Later that night Thire was disturbed by a knock on the door and Lyni came in with two cups of steaming liquid and a bag of treats which distracted him from the box under her arm, "Care for a break?"
He dropped his stylus and sighed, "Like you need to ask." Smiling at her as she put the drinks and bag on his desk, "You've seemed to disappear recently." A note of teasing came into his voice trying to disguise the hurt, "Invite me to a ball then ignore me. What happened?"
Sipping her drink she answered, "I've been busy. The equality bill has taken up much of my time." Then setting the box on his desk, "So has this."
Looking at it, "Is this for me?"
She smiled at him and nodded, "Open it."
Taking the lid off the box he stared at its contents before reaching in and pulling out a tunic that was fashioned to be like his armour but was different enough that most wouldn't make the connection. There was also black trousers in the box and a short cape. Looking at her hopeful face, "Where did you get these?"
Ducking her head, "I made them. I also had to make outfits for my brothers and myself which has taken up my free time recently."
The first three words stuck in his mind, "You made them." She looked up and saw the awe in his face, "You made this for me."
She nodded, "I though you would be more comfortable if it was close to your armour, but I also wanted you to match me so that everyone knew that we were together." A swallow, "And the cape is of the same material that my brothers and I are all wearing in some form so your a part of the family."
He had no idea what to say. No one had ever done something like this for him. Sure he had shared meals with his brothers, sat with them like her. But no one had ever took the time to make him something. To show him he belonged.
Lyni was still watching him, waiting for something. He crossed to her and lifted her into his arms. Hopefully what he wanted to say would be transferred through the tight hug. As she hugged him back and he knew she got the meaning.