His resolve was amazing, and almost sad in a way-- though Karim had just arrived, and put through such a whirlwind of emotion, he was eager to make himself useful. It was the life that had been decided for him before he had even come into this world. It would take time for the reality of his new condition to settle in. But even a moment apart felt like too much to Tykiri, and unconsciously he shifted to draw Karim closer to him. Just to have him in his arms again was more than enough to sate him. His heart was so full, his stomach was more than an afterthought.<br/><br/>"There will be plenty of time for that later, if you wish," he said. "I can't imagine how long it's been since you were able to just<i>be.</i>" His touch was so light as he wrapped Karim into his hold once more. "It doesn't matter what that bastard said or what was written-- as long as you are here, you are a freedman too. This house is yours. There is nothing that you have to do except..." He hesitated. He didn't want to sound like he had conditions. But selfishly, there was something he needed to hear-- if only once.<br/><br/>He took a breath, and spoke. "...Stay with me. That is all." He finally smiled for Karim, a little lopsided grin with a peek of pearly teeth. He reached up to brush the curl from between his eyes and stroked the back of his hand against his cheek. "Do this for me, and I will never ask anything else of you for as long as we live."