Re-loved

Theo, come here," Liam said gently. "My lord, I... I didn't intend to say, I mean..." Theo stammered. "Step closer to me, Theo." Theo moved towards the prince's bed and stood before him. "My lord, I apologize, I... I didn't mean what I said," Theo said with his head lowered. "Look at me, Theo," Liam commanded. Theo lifted his gaze and noticed the prince's eyes had softened. Liam caressed Theo face and looked into his eye. "Theo, you consume my thoughts to the point that I'm unsure how to proceed. You inspire me to change, to help others, to fight for you," Liam confessed. "My lord, what are you implying? I am merely an ordinary slave you purchased for your pleasure, and now you speak of fighting for me?" Theo inclined his head once more as Liam gently lifted his chin. "I have deep emotions for you, Theo. I genuinely cherish you greatly. I desire to be near you constantly, to have... to have your body close to mine." "My Lord, you do not desire to have feelings for a person like me, I am not deserving of your attention," Theo said, tears welling in his eyes. "I suspect what you perceive is merely lust." "Do not presume to understand what you do not, Theo." Liam gently turned Theo to face the mirror. "Just look at you," he said softly. "You are truly a sight to behold." Theo felt a mix of joy and sorrow as the prince expressed his feelings, yet his heart ached as memories of the past flooded back. Liam tenderly stroked Theo's neck, eliciting a soft moan, "I am truly fond of you, Theo."