But it's there [ Basch murmurs, wishing he could roll Olivine to him and cup his face. Instead he nestles against his hair, still holding him tightly. ] I will follow your wishes, but your happiness and wellbeing will always be more important to me than anything or anyone else, duty included.

[ He freezes at the hand on his jaw, then melts into it, turning to kiss whatever ski he can. ]

As long as you want me, I will be with you.

[ It's occurring to him, too, that he was Wolf, and Olivine was better with him than without. That there was mating, but there was no aggression. ]

I -- next month, I can try staying. So long as we have a safety plan.