Rondo isn't used to thinking that far into the future, but it's something of a revelation to see it through Ziggy's eyes, even for a moment. Elves live for centuries. Rondo can reasonably expect 1800 years or more ahead of him. But Antheans are apparently longer-lived even than that.

It's too much to think about all at once. Besides, what matters is now, here, together.

"I'm not used to this. But I like it, too." He kisses his chin lightly. "I'll stay until you wake up again."

He may not stay awake, but he'll stay.