[ Iorveth could also stop taking it for granted that Astarion understands him, and be nice for once and speak the given into existence. "I love you no matter what" will never be a lie, even if he'd prefer that Astarion knew of Iorveth's unconditionality implicitly. It doesn't help to strongarm someone into having self-worth, but again― there are things that Iorveth simply doesn't grasp properly.
Which is why "I don't care if you deserve me, I care if you like me" feels deeply troubling: Iorveth's kneejerk mental response is "you actually shouldn't settle", but watching Astarion bristle and turn away is―
―well, it's sad. A juvenile term for something far more complicated. It makes Iorveth sit up, unfolding his legs to scoot and kneel closer to the edge of the bed, palm between Astarion's shoulderblades. ]
Astarion. [ As gentle as a man like Iorveth can manage. ] Look at me.
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Which is why "I don't care if you deserve me, I care if you like me" feels deeply troubling: Iorveth's kneejerk mental response is "you actually shouldn't settle", but watching Astarion bristle and turn away is―
―well, it's sad. A juvenile term for something far more complicated. It makes Iorveth sit up, unfolding his legs to scoot and kneel closer to the edge of the bed, palm between Astarion's shoulderblades. ]
Astarion. [ As gentle as a man like Iorveth can manage. ] Look at me.