Zale glanced at Soren, catching the unusual sadness in his eyes. The question Soren had just asked echoed in Zale's mind, leaving him stunned.
"Why would you ask something like that?" Zale's voice was gentle, laced with concern. He blinked, trying to process the sight of Soren's downcast expression, something that was rare and upsetting.
Soren turned his face away, his lips pressed into a thin line as he struggled to find the right words. He knows Zale loves him, but he still couldn't shake the gnawing worry in his heart.
Zale, sensing Soren's unrest, reached out and cupped his face with both hands, turning Soren's head so their eyes met. Without a word, he leaned in and pressed his lips to Soren's, kissing him slowly and tenderly, meant to convey the depth of his love. The kiss was soft and sweet, a silent reassurance.
When Zale finally pulled back, he searched Soren's eyes. "What's this about? Did Stephen say something to you?"