King Poseidon floated near the entrance to his harem, arms crossed over his chest, and stared at the empty room. He was lost in his own thoughts, contemplating the naked stone, when an arm snaked around his waist from behind.
Galileo’s chin came to rest softly on his shoulder. Are you brooding again? he murmured.
Poseidon sighed and lowered one of his hands to rest over Galileo’s. I have to wonder if I did the right thing. Sometimes, when I realize what I have done, I panic for a moment. I forget all my reasons.
Hmm. Galileo turned his head slightly and nuzzled into Poseidon’s neck. But you did have reasons. Good ones.
I did, I suppose. Poseidon paused. I’m sorry for taking away your Beast’s sport.
Don’t even think of it, said Galileo dismissively. The Beast has many uses. It was merely serving that purpose because it was your will.
And now my will was to set the humans free. Gali, tell me... why did I do it again?
Galileo’s hand tightened around Poseidon and his head rose so that Galileo’s face nestled against Poseidon's hair, just above his ear. Because some of them might have had love or loved ones at home. Because their pain was not as much fun when it was so similar to your own. Because – mm – because you don’t need them anymore.
Poseidon’s other hand came up to rest on the side of Galileo’s face for a moment, a simple touch, before he turned in Galileo’s arms to face him. I love you, he said, frowning, as though it was something that bothered him slightly.
Galileo smiled, saying nothing, and leaned in to embrace him.