[ he can feel the way Kaeya stiffens against him, even before their bond pulses with the heat of his alpha's anger. there's an urge to immediately placate and take back what he's said, but Diluc holds firm. no matter what happens, or how happy they are together, it won't be as meaningful if his mate feels like there's a part of him that will always be unlovable and unworthy because of where he's from. and who he is. ]

They won't.

[ he says firmly as he turns as much as he can to nuzzle against Kaeya's face, hoping to comfort him. ]

They will never know what it feels like to be abandoned, or used as a means to an end. But when they grow, they will want to know where you come from. Your story. And if you ever feel comfortable enough to tell them, they'll still think that you are the most incredible alpha they know. Because you are, Kaeya. You grew in the darkness but look at you now. Un-beholden to the chains that they tried to bind you with. Strong enough to claim the Ragnvindr heir as your mate, yet soft enough to forgive me after everything I've done. That is all of you.

[ he knows Kaeya will have a hard time believing him, but Diluc is ready to prove it to him for the rest of their lives. ]

And I love all of you... [ a small smile curls his lips ] ... as much as you drive me crazy sometimes.