Kintsugi

As she leaned into him, Deimos held her closely just as she knew he would. Though their beginning had been tumultuous and the fates seemed to test them regularly, Ikigai could truly say that she trusted the man. If she thought about it, she could say that she loved him. They had called one another 'love' in conversation, but Iki couldn't remember ever having made the declaration aloud. Maybe it was time.

Just as Ikigai was prepared to open her mouth, Deimos started to speak. The black and white fae listened carefully, her brow furrowing in question for a moment as her mate continued to speak. A question? Of course she met his gaze without issue, giving him her full attention as he spoke of mates, then of something deeper. Iki canted her head slightly, wondering just what he was getting at. The woman then listened as Deimos laid out the beliefs of his family, nodding in understanding here and there. Soul mates... it was a nice thought.

Deimos looked away for a moment, a bit of bashfulness on his handsome features. He'd never believed in soul mates until he'd found her and the smaller wolf's heart thrummed and warmed within her chest. Everything he was saying, it felt right. Deimos continued to speak and Ikigai absently wrapped one gloved foreleg around one of her mate's, holding onto him as he shared this very vulnerable moment with her. Pairings within their family were gravely important. Neither would be able to procreate with another for as long as they lived. Deimos apologized for their difference in age and Iki shook her head, still staying silent, but she wanted him to know that it didn't matter to her. He mattered.

Ikigai had believed that she'd loved Kotori. While that may have been true, it was nothing like this. This... what she and Deimos had battled for and had forged together, this was what the Ashen princess wanted. It was what she needed. It was what they both deserved. Then Deimos was speaking again, his paws moving to take hold of her own. He had wanted to make something for this moment, but he should know by now that Iki wasn't one to collect trinkets and baubles. If he had given her something, she would have cherished it, but it wasn't a necessity. Though technically royalty, the woman had very few personal possessions.

Deimos spoke the words at long last. He loved her. A bit of the sorrow that had haunted the fae's marbled gaze was shed as the love she felt for him was reflected within. Deimos asked if she would be his, if she would take his name and bind her soul to his. The brute's ears had folded as though he expected that she might say no. Ikigai raised one paw to cup a plum and slate cheek, her opposable digit gently stroking across the soft fur as she brought his eyes to meet hers. "My soul has been tied to yours from the moment that we met," she admitted softly but clearly. "I am yours, Deimos Mendacium. For now and ever more." For the first time since their shared loss, a smile lifted the corners of the woman's dark lips. "And I love you, so, so much."

"Deimos & Ikigai"