Nathaniel is quiet for a moment as he nuzzles into Asher's hair.

"He still loves you, cares for you," he murmurs. "Despite everything, you two..."

He chuckles softly, smiling against the fragrant hair.

"You both love each other like no one else can ever love either of you."

It's a sort of bittersweet knowledge, but Nathaniel will never begrudge Asher that happiness, that feeling.

"You say he is practical, not cruel, and somehow innocent. What of you? What were you, Asher?"