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It was endearing -amusing even- at times for Lorenz to introduce Raphael to the life of nobility.
The way his brows furrowed and creased as he stared down at the perfectly made table, trying to identify which was the salad fork and the fork one would use for the main course; then he’d find himself pausing again in frustration to try to spot the difference between the soup spoon and dessert spoon. How focused he was when he reminded himself where to place his hands on Lorenz as they waltzed, his feet stumbling out of rhythm to the low hum from Lorenz as he set the mood; it was mainly difficult because Raphael always tried to lead when he was supposed to be following as he learned the dance.
Raphael tried his best, like he always did, when he had to stand still as he was measured and fitted for new suits and shirts, the twitching of muscles as boney, cold yet skilled fingers traveled along his skin whenever the seamstress smoothed down fabric to make sure everything was set correctly. Or when the cobbler came to size his feet for custom boots, he struggled to sit still whenever he was tired of sitting down for long periods of time
Lorenz will be the first to admit that this way of living could be quite difficult to adjust to -especially if one was common born-, but this was how he was raised so there were many years of experience and time to get used to it all. Of course he was happy that Raphael wanted to improve himself and want to learn the ways of nobility, but he always tried to reassure the other of this whenever Raphael expressed his doubts, the reasonable doubts that he might never get things right and that he might make a fool of Lorenz whenever it was time to be hosts for a party. But that never mattered to Lorenz, while yes, he cared about his appearance and of how other nobles perceived him but when it came to his lover, he didn’t care. All that mattered to him was being able to be by the others side, hooking an arm around his waist and being able to express his love for all to see. That is all he ever thought of or cared about whenever he would see Raphael practice on holding a wine glass between thick fingers as he attempted to set it down carefully so that it wouldn’t ‘thunk’ against the table.
It had been a month since Lorenz had begun to teach the other of the ways of high society, although the two had been courting for longer. It was hard to pinpoint exactly when or how they had gotten together but within the midst of war and gore they had truly found each other and decided to stay together for as long as they could. Their relationship was mostly kept between the two, it was something that the both had discussed between each other when Raphael was asked to live with Lorenz (very scandalous), with the exception of their former professor -Byleth always seemed to know about these things-. The long conversation that the two had the first night together at the Gloucester estate was surprising to say the least. Raphael had expressed his feeling about announcing their relationship with others, especially to those who live in Gloucester territory, someone of noble status courting a commoner? Unheard of!
No matter how many times Lorenz reassured Raphael that the opinion of what others have about them was invalid, but the other would shake his head and insist that he wanted to do this. Once Raphael had made up his mind, it was utterly useless to try and argue on the matter. Such a stubborn headed bull. He wanted to learn more about the ways of high society and how to fit in, to push himself into the future husband of the new head of Gloucester that he would be proud of. Although Raphael really didn’t need to go to such lengths, Lorenz couldn’t help but admire him for his tenacity. Truly inspiring.
Before his mind could wander further into memories, a large and warm hand settled on his shoulder, dwarfing it and successfully bringing him back into the present. It was gentle in the way it pulled him backwards, even though he couldn’t feel it, it was still jarring that such scarred and rough hands could be so careful and delicate. His back was then nestled against a firm chest and a chin dug into the top of his head.
“What are you doing all the way over here?” He could feel the deep vibrations of Raphael’s voice rumble from against his back. Of course, even before they realized they had deep feelings for each other, Raphael was always one for public displays of affection. It can be charming at times.
“I just needed some time away from the crowd, is all.” Lorenz huffed, pressing further into the warm embrace and accepting the arms that encircled his waist. Oh to just stay like this and ignore the crowd of people that were attending the coronation of the new ruler of Fodlan, but alas, they couldn’t -well, they absolutely could but Lorenz felt that would be rude to Byleth-.
Many people they have come to know from the war were in attendance, mingling in together in a relaxed atmosphere and engaging in pleasant chatter. At times the scene could be emotional, to think that they could all stand together in peace -alive and well- after such brutal bloodshed could bring just about anyone to tears.
Raphael only hums in response, saying nothing for the moment as his hug becomes a little tighter and breathing in Lorenz’s strong smelling cologne. But after the music from the band changed to a different tune, he whispered close to his ear. “Am I doing a good job?”
Resisting the urge to roll his eyes, Lorenz wriggles an arm free so that he could pat the others face, feeling the frown. He wants to retort but knows that his partner is asking out of genuinity, the need to soothe an anxiety. “All your hard work is paying off, I’m quite proud of you.”
“You really mean that?” He could feel the beaming smile against his skin, picturing the wide and toothy smile that he grew to love and strove to see all the time.
“Of course I do.” Lorenz scoffs. “What do you take me for, a liar?”
“No, just someone who has a soft spot.” A sloppy wet kiss was then pressed to his cheek.
“Alright! That's enough, time to get back.”
Raphael’s booming laughter mixed together with the other sounds around them, blending in perfect harmony that no one would have any suspicion, as Lorenz tried to get out of the hold while trying to wipe the slobber from his face, grumbling in disgust and annoyance. He failed to escape and was brought back even closer, feeling the rough and patchy beard nuzzling the nape of his neck.
Lorenz sighed in defeat. Knowing all too well that he was outmatched in terms of strength, he could use his wits but didn’t, he loved the other too much and despite the antics, it endeared him. He supposed that no one would miss them for another few moments, after all, it’s not like anyone was actively searching for either of them.
Hidden within the columns shadows of the restored cathedral, Lorenz and Raphael kept ahold of each other, away from prying eyes so none could see their private moment of love and care.