He met the kiss, smiling against Krem's mouth. "I am glad to," he said softly. "I care very much for you - I love you, cariad." He held Krem's face, stroking his thumb across his cheek. He kissed him again, lingering. That Krem had accepted the gift warmed something in him.

"You're a good man, Krem. I'm honored that someone like you would love me." Hild had not said the words but he felt it from her, too.