"You don't have to do everything all by yourself, Soren," she said, her voice a soft, steady anchor in the dark.
"I'm your wife. My duty isn't just to wear a crown beside you. It is to assist you in carrying the burdens of your empire. Let me help you."
The dam broke. Soren leaned into her touch, his arms wrapping around her waist, his hands spanning the small of her back as he pulled her closer.
He buried his face against her stomach, hiding from the world, hiding from the maps, hiding from the cold.
"I know," he muffled against her. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry."
Eris smoothed his blonde hair, her fingers tracing the line of his scalp. "I don't want your apology, Soren."
He pulled back just enough to look up at her, his brow furrowed in confusion. "What do you want then?"
Eris looked away, a rare touch of shyness coloring her cheeks. The Empress retreated, leaving only the woman. "Maybe… a kiss will do."
