Chapter 461: We have to trust him
Rhys took them on a walk through the Guild. He started at the lobby, holding Kellen’s hand in a grip so tight Kellen wouldn’t be able to break free if he wanted to. He went up, level by level, keeping Kellen by his side the whole time. Kellen wondered if this was something he used to do on his own to calm himself down, but at the same time, it didn’t feel like Kellen should speak.
So he didn’t. He was just present with the man, letting him gather himself.
Eventually, when they got to the Medical Bay, Rhys spoke as they moved through the white, clinical hallways.
"You know, when I brought you here the first time after I had ended your career, the life that you knew, and had stolen your livelihood, I never imagined that we would be here." The casual way Rhys said it made Kellen take a second to register what he had said.
Kellen, without thinking, swung his free hand and smacked his arm.
"None of that! You didn’t ruin my life, Rhys." Kellen’s voice was harsh. "You haven’t ever ruined my life. You’re a blessing to my life, even when you were being a piece of shit." Kellen told him and Rhys let out a laugh.
"I was being a piece of shit, wasn’t I? I was just so insecure. I wanted everyone to know you belonged to me. Were meant for me. I want to blame how long I’d gone without proper guiding, but honestly some of that was just...possessiveness." Rhys admitted. "Did I apologise for my behaviour? I can’t remember. I’m sorry for putting you in uncomfortable situations, Kellen. I never meant to belittle you or make you feel like I wasn’t going to respect you. I just..." Kellen’s heavy sigh had Rhys slow down, turning his gaze to Kellen.
When Kellen raised his gaze up to look at him, he was shaking his head.
"Just shut up." Kellen told him and Rhys’ eyes widened.