Chapter Text
“You have to. I love you- the kingdom loves you.” They’re in his royal chambers, dim with the soft illumination of the slowly rising sun. The candles adorning the walls have since dwindled with the hours. Mickey sighs with his head resting against Reuben’s chest, a finger trailing up and down the expanse of curls. He could feel Reuben’s spend cooling inside him but made no effort to get up and draw a bath.
“The kingdom’s love is not enough. They-“
“Then make my love enough,” Mickey interjects and Reuben sighs as they rehash the same quiet argument they’ve had time and time again. He lets his leg brush against Mickey’s under the soft furs keeping them warm.
“I- I can’t. You know I can’t. You’re asking me to commit treason , Mickey. My brother is king and that is final .”
“ King,” Mickey scoffs, barreling through Reuben’s attempt to end the conversation. “Your brother is a usurper, his claim to the throne isn’t lawful.”
“And he bears that shame every day.”
“I don’t believe he has any shame what with all the whoring and hunting he does.”
Reuben sighs, reaching up to still his lover's hand. “ Mickey. ..I’m not meant to be king.” He acquiesces. “I hold no love for wars or- or women or any political matters across the realm. Do you think we’d be able to lay here as we do if I were king?” He leans down to place a soft kiss on Mickey’s forehead. “Kings take wives and produce heirs.”
“And kings take on royal mistresses,” Mickey jests, but many truths are spoken in jests.
It was Reuben’s turn to scoff. “ You , Ser Mickey of royal Kingsguard and my sworn shield, cloistered away in my bed-chamber, I dare to see it.”
Mickey huffs and raises, supporting his head on his own arm. “I could be your Hand, then. I could be your chief advisor and we could rule together…my father could be your bank.”
“What you’re talking about would start a war. Between me and my brother, those who choose to remain loyal to the crown and those who would choose to follow me, it would be unnecessary bloodshed.” He pauses and glances at Mickey. “I’ve never fought in a war before.”
“I would fight for you.”
A beat passes.
“I know.”
“The people love you, Reuben. They’d love to serve you because you’re kind to them. Your brother is a harsh and unforgiving man. The people hold no love for him. Where is it written that kings must be feared?”
“....Enough, Mickey.” He raises his hand and slots his fingers in the soft dark curls above him. “Just lay with me, let’s not let trivial thoughts squalor our morning.”