"I don't think that, Terry. I'm staying here because I want to. I have other choices. There are always choices, even if you don't think so, and even if somone tries to t-take them away from you." Blake only stuttered when he thought about them, and he knew his slip hadn't gone unoticed.

"Don't you dare wish you could do more for me. You've already helped me more than you can ever imagine. Hell, you probably saved my life. In the end, either one of them would have gone too far and killed me or I would have."

Blake was usually far less open about thi, but it was true. At various points over the years, if they had hurt him particularly badly that day, if he felt trully broken...yes, he had considered taking his own life. Not even Midona knew it, but not all of his scars came from others.

Terry's eyes filled with concern. He could almost hear Blake's thoughts. He brought the young man towards him and pressed a kiss to his temple.

"I am glad you don't feel imprisoned here. I... am glad you are here. I enjoy being around you..." A faint blash blossomed on his pale cheeks.

Blake practically fell into the hug, "I like you too. A lot." and then, in a much smaller voice, "I know you caught the signifigance of that last part. Please don't think any less of me for it."

"I don't." Terry nuzzled Blake's hair, and smiled, just as Deillion came back up the stairs and faced the two, the playful scowl marred somewhat by the bandage.

"Come on! I've been waiting for you. Lorelei's made tea!"

Blake pulled away, blushing slightly, and blinked away the tears that had threatened to fall.

"Okay, okay."