I'm not certain we are operating on the same ideas of freedom, here.

[ And that's a problem to be mulled over. Winter shifts his weight and settles without thinking about it much; he's less intent, but in exchange, he's more comfortable. It's a strange feeling, but one that feels more right than many he's had over the past six months. ]

Certainly, my family is less... disapproving of the very idea, and certainly I have had no other companionship than you. But there's been less interest, certainly. No one else has been interested, while you could have your pick of anyone you prefer. It's my luck, then, if you'd rather choose me.