Damien considered how to articulate something he barely understood himself. "I'm drawn to her. I value her understanding in ways I can't get from you or Seria because she's living the same burden I am. But whether that's love or just recognition of similarity – I honestly can't tell."
"That's fair. I can't tell either, and I'm better at reading emotions than you are." Elara was quiet for a moment. "Would it bother you if I said I don't hate the idea of her being part of this? Of us?"
"What?"
"I've been thinking about what she said. About not trying to replace us, just wanting to help keep you alive. About accepting that you come with us attached." Elara's voice was thoughtful. "And I realized – I'm less threatened by that than I should be. Maybe because she loves you in ways that include accepting your existing commitments rather than demanding you abandon them. That's different than typical romantic rivalry."
"You're saying you'd be okay with me having feelings for her?"
