[Perhaps it was proof enough that when sufficiently removed from his object of obsession, Albert could learn to walk on his own. But here William stands, close, warm, adored, and Albert's mind blanks of all other thoughts at that kiss. He'll be William's, even when William isn't his any longer. That much is true, and always will be. Perhaps that's what they're keeping from him.

The kiss lingers, deep and passionate and full of the feelings Albert pushed down for his own sake in William's absence. He's told him so many times how much he missed him, how he ached to be near him, how if London was too far then being in another world was absolute torment. The nights he spent alone were devastatingly isolating, and Albert looked forward to mornings because mornings meant people and tasks and distraction. Now he has William again. And he will be forever his, no matter what.]

Don't be foolish, William. You know I adore you. I'm yours until the end, and beyond it.

[He says it more for his own benefit than his brother's.]

Stay with me until you're satisfied.