[The Vast Empty Lands — Continuation]
Zeramet remained on his knees. Levin rested safely within his arms, his head tucked gently against the Emperor's chest, close enough to hear the steady heartbeat that had refused to give up on him.
His trembling hand slowly rose, his thumb lovingly brushed across Levin's pale cheek, lingering there as though reassuring himself that the warmth beneath his fingertips was real.
Not another illusion, not another cruel dream.
He leaned down, pressing a long, lingering kiss against Levin's forehead, his eyes closed as the words escaped him like a prayer.
"You're alive. So long as I breathe...I will never let you go again, never."
Levin remained peacefully asleep. Completely unaware of the tears staining his robes. Completely unaware that the husband who had searched the Empire day and night was now holding him as though he were the most precious treasure in existence.
A soft sound interrupted the silence.
"...Rrr..."
