He had no armor against that gentle touch and sweetness. The kiss nearly finished the job. Joseph actually had to push down the relief and such to keep from actually weeping.
The bedpost comment was entirely a distraction to cover for his emotional distress. It had at least succeeded in distracting Rhys away from apologizing again or being too bloody damn sweet and understanding Joseph would lose his composure completely.
The next chuckle was less strained. "It certainly is a much more pleasant topic," he agreed. Catching a handful of Rhys' curls he leaned in to claim his mouth next in a kiss that still hints of the emotional turmoil of the entire ordeal.
Joseph was beyond caring at this point. He had what he wanted. The rest of it didn't matter for now.