Essek didn’t want the hand to go away, wanted it to slide around him and hold him close. It wouldn’t, not out in public, not while he held this ghoulish box, but that selfish want was there.

He wished they were home, or in the Tower. Just somewhere private rather than dealing with the worst errand one could think of.

“And you are mine,” he said softly. This place had allowed him that, this connection that was hard fought and forever growing. Would he have to fear outgrowing Caleb here? No. There was a peace and comfort in that.

“Never doubt what you are to me, Caleb Widogast,” he said with a fond smile. “Otherwise, I shall have to spend all my time and energy reminding you in whatever way you want.”