"Alek, I-" Eztli started but Bran interrupted.<br/>"Eztli, I understand your fears, but you doing this may restrengthen your bond in a way that wouldn't happen if I did it. Even I think it's the best thing for the two of you. He still loves you, Eztli, even if you can't feel it right now."<br/><br/>Æsc smiled softly, he loved so much seeing her smile at him, and hearing those words come from her and directed at him. He ran one hand through her hair and resumed the kiss.