Kersen.

[whispersoflove]

After Anael had made sure that Alcuin had everything he needed, he set off to do as he had promised him, and reached Kersen's home right as the sun was setting behind the London buildings. He landed in a nearby, small street, then shed the wings and reappeared to the world, to walk on over to Kersen's door. He rang the bell, then said quietly to the door, hoping that Kersen might be listening, and would hear him, "It's Anael."

Comments

[whispersoflove]

"You seemed concerned that it might have been him," Anael pointed out, still frowning.

[kersen]

"I was concerned because I don't think he's the best person to help," Kersen said. "But if he's who Alcuin wants in this moment..." He shrugged. "We all cope with things differently."

[whispersoflove]

Anael remained silent for a few seconds, then nodded in acceptance of Kersen's opinion. "All right."

[kersen]

"He's lucky to have you looking out for him, too," Kersen said gently.

[whispersoflove]

Anael shook his head with a small, sad smile. "I don't spend nearly enough time here for that. But he said that he has a few friends he can call on."

[kersen]

Kersen nodded. He was glad. He imagined Hannibal would have worried about him.

Hannibal. Grief rolled over him.

"It was kind of you to come by and tell me in person," he added quietly, and put a hand to Anael's cheek.

[whispersoflove]

Anael felt better for the touch, even as Kersen's grief washed through him. He tilted his head into Kersen's hand and covered it with his own. "It was the least I could do."

[kersen]

Kersen pulled Anael into an embrace, and then kissed his cheek.

"I think perhaps I'd like to be alone for a little while though," he said softly.

[whispersoflove]

"Of course," Anael nodded slightly, although he returned the embrace for a beat longer, before letting go and stepping back. "Did Bonnie know him?"

[kersen]

Kersen shook his head. "She's gaining more control, but I haven't introduced her to my human friends yet, she..."

He hesitated, and then decided that Anael should get the whole picture. "She's the vampire who recently attacked Alcuin."

[whispersoflove]

"Oh," Anael nodded, frowning. "Do you think that I might - see her? She must be feeling so lonely. I can come back later," he added, in case Kersen did not simply want to be alone, but wanted Anael gone.

[kersen]

"I would like that," Kersen said. "I think you'd be a good person for her to meet. Though she's not awake yet - she's young enough that it takes a time after sunset for her to be strong enough to wake again." He put a hand on Anael's shoulder. "Soon?"

[whispersoflove]

Anael nodded. "Pray to me, when you think it might be a good time? If I can, I will come."

[kersen]

"I will," Kersen promised. He and Bonnie had talked a lot, and within the next few days he was taking her to the club to supervise her drinking from a volunteer. Both of them were uncomfortable with the idea, but it was necessary.

"Thank you again," he added quietly, and kissed Anael's cheek again.

[whispersoflove]

Anael raised a hand to stroke his fingertips along Kersen's jaw, a gesture of pure love and care. "Pray to me if you need me," he offered, then ducked his head and turned to go.