It's the first time in years that actual tears have escaped Nathaniel's eyes and rolled down his face. First things first, he returns that kiss to the her glowing cheek, then takes out a handkerchief and dabs those tears away.

"We will always be family." His tone lightens. "I'm only giving you away in a symbolic sense, after all--I have to make sure Aleron doesn't bore you into a stupor."