Joseph had been wildly in danger of falling in love the night they met. Rhys had checked all the boxes, as it was said. The conversation over the Schrecknet and their first evening together had been all the signs he needed. But Joseph was not a cautious person in any way, especially in love. He understood it took other people a little longer to sort their feelings and get past their inhibitions and fears.
It was rather more a concern Rhys would outgrow Joseph. It was something he'd already quietly resigned himself to as a possibility. His relationship with his only childe had taught him that even if love didn't fade, love wasn't the only thing that mattered. He still adored Rosita, but describing their relationship as volatile was an understatement. Right now, Rhys needed Joseph's gentle guidance and protection.
But perhaps in time, he'd find it smothering and restrictive to be tied to a prominent member of New York's Court and wish to venture out into the world on his own. It wasn't something Joseph liked to think about, but it was a reality. Rhys was only beginning the journey of who he'd become. Needs changed. But for now, Joseph was going to openly adore and gently guide him as much as he could.
"I know," Joseph chuckled. "And I promise to use a bit more caution the next time I run into a burning building." He couldn't promise he wouldn't endanger himself again. But he'd be a bit less reckless. "Good. Because that's exactly what I desire." His thanks got a wry smile.
"Thank you." Rhys didn't have to take a chance on the older Kindred. Even if he was the trusting sort, he could have found Joseph's interest suspicious or listened to Amadeus' well meaning advice and not let Joseph take over his life. "You have so much potential, Rhys," he insisted. "Henry saw it, that's why he Embraced you. Amadeus sees it, even if he refuses to admit it. Mab saw it tonight. And I see it all the time. Don't let anyone, especially yourself, tell you otherwise."