Could Joshua survive without Dion? Possibly. He had Clive and Jill who were rocks unto themselves for him, but would he be happy? No, he certainly would not. His attachment and affection surrounding the prince were clear as day. He would mourn losing him, much as he would losing his own brother. Especially now, when his heart was so very raw and full of adoration...he can't imagine loving another.

The hand atop his own snaps him out of his thoughts, raising his head to smile sweetly toward Dion in turn.

"I hope you know you have done the same for me in turn. You may not believe it in full, but you are precious to me, Dion."