daughterofforgottenkings:

She’s grateful for his embrace, allowing herself to briefly give into the worry and doubt that has threatened to eat away at each recent moment of happiness. Swallowing back her tears, Amera meets his gaze and smiles faintly despite herself, “Thank you, Bard…truly, I-” A pause. “I am glad to have someone who understands.”

She knows she can speak freely to him, can wholly and utterly trust him; a rare gift, indeed. “Please, speak not of this to Fili,” Amera sets her jaw, running a tongue over her lip, “He worries enough, Bard. I….I tell him all, but I would not have him worry about me when there is a kingdom looking to him.”

“If that is your wish,” he says, quietly, “I shall honor it, of course. But allow me a word of advice, Amera, for you and Fili are dear to me both.” His hands move to rest on both her shoulders as he looks into her eyes, silently willing her to see that his next words come from a place of affectionate concern, and not one of judgement. “Share this with him. It need not be now. But know that ‘tis not a burden for one’s loved one to reveal their shadowed thoughts.”

Bard smiles, as faintly as she did before. “He is foolish at times, but he is no fool, Amera, as well you know. Even if you keep this from him with the best of your intentions, he will know something is amiss with you. Trust him. Trust what you have with him. That is all I will say on the matter.”