And this is why Matthias stuck around. Sam surprised him. In his long existence, he’s rarely met someone who would accept having their feelings unrequited in the specific way Sam’s were. Who would want to cohabitate with someone they’re pining for? Who would want to sleep every night beside someone who couldn’t love them back? Who would want to go through all the motions of affection without actually having it?

Sam, apparently.


Matthias nodded slightly, walking off in the direction of the gardens he’d yet to explore. That was their original destination, after all. His silence was heavier than usual, his mind churning with the confirmation of his suspicions. Also, he wondered why he cared if Sam was happy or not? Okay, so maybe Matthias has grown fond of his companion. He chose, Sam, after all. Didn’t that make Sam his?

Oh, Sam could have more, just not emotionally.

“Have you fallen in love with me?” There’s no playfulness in his tone. No, he’s actually taking Sam’s feelings seriously.