The Proposal

Rob and Rae

Rob and Joanna's official wedding celebrations were to begin the following week . Bran had officially invited all of the heads of the realms to attend . He had special invitations sent to Tyrion and Rae . He knew it was in future King in the North Robb Stark's best interest to have a good relationship with these two as they two would be the head of the governance in Kings Landing in the future .

Joanna had also sent notes with the invitations asking them both to arrive earlier than the scheduled activities so they could spend time together prior to the marriage .

Jon was beyond nervous when he learned that Rae was arriving . It was calming to know that she and Joanna were already close . Jon had spoken privately to Joanna about his desire for Rae and Robb to have at least a friendly relationship even if they could not consider themselves siblings . Joanna had said that she would support the pace that Robb and Rae wanted to pursue their relationship at , but that she would encourage a good relationship between them . Jon had been very heartened after the conversation with her . Robb was indeed a fortunate man .

Rae arrived with Tyrion and Shae . They immediately took her to meet Joanna . Rae had stated that she did not want stay in Winterfell but to stay in other guest quarters . Joanna had convinced Rae to stay with her since she had come mainly to make Joanna happy . Rae had told Joanna she felt indifferent about meeting any of the Starks . Rae had confided in Joanna that she felt disloyal to her mother by having any type of relationship with the Starks . She was introduced to the Starks by Tyrion as the future Queen of the 6 Kingdoms . She was given full protocol . Tyrion and Oberyn had convinced Dany to give her space and not interfere in the introductions with the Starks . Dany had very reluctantly agreed to keep a distance . However Dany has counseled Rae that it was in her interests to have a cordial relationship with the Starks and that she did not want her to feel any guilt about meeting or liking Robb . After all Dany explained he had been hurt by Jon's actions as well .

Joanna, Bran and Tyrion was present the first time Rob and Rae met . The half siblings were busy assessing one another .

Robb spoke first : Good of you to come .

Rae : I came for Joanna .

Robb : I know but it's still good of you to come . I know it's awkward .

Rae simply shook her head : yes it will take time

Just then the door opened and Jon walked in .

Jon made his way to Rae and hugged her . She just stood there awkwardly and did not really reciprocate .

Jon : How are you Rae ? I've missed you .

Rae : I'm well thank you .

Jon : You've met Robb I see .

Rae : Yes we've just been introduced .

An awkward pause .

Rae : He looks like you .

Jon : Aye he does , but he also looks like Robb , my broth..... cousin .

Robb : Well I think I will be going

Jon : Robb please don't leave I want you two to spend some time together .

Robb : Alright .

Jon: I know this is awkward . I wish that ....

Rae : Well that's an understatement .

Robb laughed . Rae joined him .

Robb : Don't push anything we will get to know each other at our own pace .

Rae : Yes , the best thing is for you to stay out of it .
I hold no animosity towards your son if that is what you're wondering . As mother pointed out he is a victim in all of this as well .

Robb: I've never been a victim. I'm perfectly content with the life that I have had . My mother was enough for me .

Rae : That's not what I meant . All I'm saying is that you must have been blindsided as well .

Robb: Well it is what it is . For the record I hold no animosity towards you either . I never felt the need for a father. You don't miss what you've never had .

Jon felt an outsider listening to his children speak as if he were invisible . But overall it was a relief to know they were civil to each other . The only animosity they held was towards him which was justified . He would just have to accept that .

Overall it was a relief there seemed to be no hatred towards each other .