The brute could feel her struggling, all sorts of turmoil inside. What was she wrestling with? If she was still upset over her actions then she just needed to get over it; he had made his decision. The boy didn’t look at the past. What a waste of time to think “what if” or “if only”. He silently snorted his discontempt, and to her thanks he simply gave a small nod, continuing to navigate the trees. He knew where he was taking her. He had discovered a small outcropping of rock near the river once on his outings and, noting the location, kept it in the back of his mind for such an occasion. Not only was it protected, but close to water as well. He wanted some place for Alleria to recover in peace. And someplace he knew he would visit often, although he shooed these thoughts away. Another time.
At her question, though, all functions stopped. His pads ceased in their movement, spheres locking straight ahead, banner ram-rod stiff. Did he... ever desire her? The words tumbled in his auds, filtering down like little waterfalls in his skull. His eyes narrowed slightly as he pondered. Well, he was a male afterall, and almost every fae got his heart racing and his hips swaying. But Alleria was different, wasn’t she? And yet he knew that if he answered truly she would only regret her deeds even more. No, even the old Serris could not commit such a crime.
So he simply started walking again, continuing on their way, walking slightly in front. “Alleria, let me tell you something,” he began. “I desire many things, as a man and as an Alpha. For instance, I desire for my pack to be prosperous. I desire the cool touch of a midnight bath. I desire security of my borders.” He paused, trying to gather his thoughts. The brute was so terrible at these things. “But for you, my dear, it is not so clear cut. Of course I desire you to be happy under my rule, but I both know we are not that dumb. And so, really, my answer must come in the form of a question. Did you ever desire me?” The words were simple, but he could only meet her eyes for a second when he said them. Some Alpha he was proving to be.
The came upon the outcove and Serris led her in, under the protection of the stone roof. He motioned for her to sit. “You will be protected here; where my guard fails the rock will stand firm. Rest and regain your strength.” Nodding, he began to pad away, but slowly, so that if she had more to say he’d have time to hear her words and return. And a part of him was dying with the wish that she would somehow make him stay.
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