[ Gently, Zevran tucks Cyril against his chest, hands moving in soothing passes down his back and through his hair. ]

You latched on to the feeling of being needed and, perhaps, mistook that craving for one of love? I do not doubt your affection for your brother, even without the desire it is still a bit... I am the last with room to speak on what is healthy and what may rest in your soul like venom, but the way things were when you arrived- they did not seem to be doing either of you any favors.

But things have changed now, for both of you. Merrick has found a place for himself here, and a place at someone's side. Someone that wants him but does not need him- someone he wants but does not need.