Chapter 7: Whispers of Tomorrow
Eirik returned to the estate late into the night, the chill of the journey still clinging to him as he was immediately met by his butlers. They fussed over him, guiding him to the dining room where a warm meal had been prepared in anticipation of his return. But before he could sit down, he turned to one of the servants.
"Has Aeryn eaten?" he asked, his voice carrying an undercurrent of concern.
"Yes, my lord," one of the butlers replied, though there was a slight hesitance in his tone. "But… not with much enthusiasm. He seemed to miss you, perhaps."
A faint smile tugged at Eirik's lips, a warmth spreading through him at the thought of his young consort waiting for him, missing him. He had found his thoughts drifting to Aeryn throughout the day, even amidst the serious discussions and strategic meetings regarding the border conflict. As he had advised his generals and negotiated with the neighboring lords, his mind had repeatedly wandered back to his small prince.
He remembered Aeryn's soft smile, the kindness in his eyes, and the sound of his melodic laughter. A warmth would fill his chest each time he thought of the way Aeryn's slender body would curl into his during the night, the way he'd clutch onto Eirik's shoulders, in pleasure when they were together. The memory of Aeryn's soft moans and the drowsy, blissful look on his face had been a distracting but pleasant thought throughout the day.
Eirik had realized just how much he longed to be near his consort again, to hold him, to see that sweet, shy expression. The thought of Aeryn now waiting for him in their chambers, perhaps already asleep, tugged at his heart. He knew tonight he would let his little prince rest. Though his own body ached for the comfort and pleasure of Aeryn, he was too tired from his long day to rouse him just for his own needs.
After finishing his meal, Eirik freshened up and made his way to their chambers. The room was dim, lit only by the flickering firelight, casting a warm glow over the space. His gaze immediately fell on the empty bed, but then he noticed Aeryn asleep in the chair by the fire.
Aeryn looked peaceful, his soft features illuminated by the dancing flames. He was curled up, a book resting on his lap, one arm dangling over the armrest of the chair. Eirik felt a pang of tenderness as he watched his little prince, so patient and gentle even in sleep. He quietly approached, crouching beside him and gently tucking a stray lock of hair behind Aeryn's ear.
The small touch caused Aeryn to stir. His eyes fluttered open, still heavy with sleep as he blinked up at his husband. "My lord? You came?"
Eirik's voice was low and soft as he spoke. "Hush now, love. You should be asleep in bed. It's well past two in the morning."
Aeryn blinked again, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep. "I wanted to wait for you… sorry, I didn't mean to fall asleep here."
Eirik smiled, his heart swelling at the thought of Aeryn staying up just to wait for him. He leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to Aeryn's forehead. "You shouldn't have waited. But come now, let's get you to bed."
With a tender hand, Eirik helped the sleepy prince out of the chair and guided him to the bed. Aeryn's steps were slow, his body heavy with fatigue as he allowed his husband to tuck him in. Once Aeryn was settled, Eirik slipped into bed beside him, careful not to disturb him further. Though the desire stirred within him, the older lord decided to hold back for now. Aeryn was tired, and Eirik wanted him to rest.
As if sensing his restraint, Aeryn snuggled closer to him, burying his face against Eirik's chest. His voice was barely a whisper as he said, "Tomorrow… we talk."
Eirik's smile deepened. He kissed Aeryn's temple, pulling him closer into his arms. "Tomorrow," he agreed, his voice filled with affection.
With Aeryn safely in his arms, his soft breathing lulling them both into a peaceful slumber, Eirik felt a sense of contentment wash over him. Both drifted off to sleep, their thoughts filled with each other.
