"I hope you know I'm not saying that to be sweet. I mean it."
Their own words surprise Niame. After all there were only a few people who had earned their loyalty and they'd recognized the danger in trusting the vampire early on. But things have changed, they both have changed and perhaps it's time to stop denying the obvious. Are you happy now. Legolas?, they ask silently. Of course their best friend had predicted this outcome from the very beginning. That these feelings would creep up on them, until it was too late. And here they stood, the depth of their affection lying bare infront of Astarion.
Niame takes a deep breath, trying to ignore the loud, rapid beating of their heart. "This is not your choice to make, Star", they say with determination in their voice, "And you're not luring me to my demise, this is my own, free decision, I can assure you that."
I can't lose you. Something stirs in them, a warmth they had almost forgotten. At least they're not making a fool of themself alone then. "We are a team, this doesn't have to be a burden you carry on your own."
Their hand reaches out, barely touching his lover's. It's only an invitation for Astarion to accept or ignore, whatever he prefers. "For what it's worth - I can't lose you either, alright? I would never forgive myself, if I let you go in there and stand idly by." Niame's voice breaks at the mere thought.
