Daphne returned his hug, her own arms wrapping around his waist. "You came," she whispered, her voice filled with a relief she couldn't hide.
Alaric didn't answer right away, only held her tighter. "Just a few more minutes, princess," he murmured, "let me hold you for a few more minutes."
After a moment, he let her go. He walked over to a small, cushioned chair, settled into it, and pulled a nearby chair for her to sit beside him. He took her hand and held it tightly. The sack he'd brought was now on the floor beside them.
"How have you been?" he asked, his voice low and concerned.
"I have been well. You have not been here for some days, so I should be asking you the same question. How have you been?"
Alaric gave a weary sigh. "Fine, princess," he said, his thumb stroking the back of her hand. "I have been busy with some duties for the Emperor."
