Gale really said "There's a real possibility I'm going to die soon. If you'll let me, I'll show you the room in my house that is a manifestation of my soul. Then, if you're chill with it, we'll make love with our literal hearts and minds." HE'S SO INTENSE AND IT MAKES ME INSANE.
Halsin who recognizes Astarion's behavior from a mile away. Halsin who smiles sweetly when Astarion tries some jape. Halsin who outflirts Astarion and makes the vampire flustered.
Halsin who catches Astarion alone in the woods, staring down some squirrel he's caught. Halsin who realizes Astarion is still trying to break the habit of drinking from animals. Halsin who realizes Astarion feels guilt for needing Tav's blood.
He offers his and rubs his back and Astarion is so eager for blood, he doesn't care how weak and pathetic he looks. He simply drinks as the warm hand rubs his back.
His hunger dies down and he's practically a babe drinking from his mother's tit at this point with the way he's lazily sucking at the vein.
Halsin who whispers comfort into the vampire's ear.
Astarion who pulls back and tries to distance himself suddenly because this is different. This shouldn't feel safe. This is too much all at once.
And Halsin who waits patiently and coaxes Astarion carefully into getting in the habit of telling him when he needs blood. Halsin who also has to patiently scold Astarion for pushing himself too far and going too long that it nearly makes the giant collapse when he drinks next.
Astarion who has yet to stop apologizing for that. Astarion who promises he will get better, not because Halsin is just so resilient and handsome and kind and sweet and...and...
Halsin who carefully cups Astarion's face and kisses his forehead.
"It's alright, Little Bat. Just breathe."
"I will rip out your throat if you ever call me that again."