Work Text:
Lucien smiled as Ernest laid his head on his shoulder. The warm weight of his head, and the softness of his hair, was heavenly. He wanted to keep Ernest like this, close to him, forever.
"Thank you," Ernest said, his voice soft. "This is perfect."
"Yes," Lucien agreed. "It is." Ernest snuggled closer, and Lucien wrapped his arms around him. He wanted to keep Ernest close, always. He was the most wonderful man Lucien had ever met, and he didn't want to lose him. "I love you," Lucien said, his voice soft.
He felt Ernest tense in his arms and looked down at him, concerned. Ernest was staring up at him; his mouth open in shock.
"Did I say that out loud?" Lucien asked, his heart thumping.
"Yes," Ernest replied, his voice a little shaky. "You did."
"I'm sorry," Lucien said quickly. "I didn't mean to say it out loud."
"It's all right," Ernest said. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "I'm just… surprised."
"I didn't mean to say it so soon," Lucien said. "I just… I know how I feel and wanted you to know, too."
"How do you feel?" Ernest asked, his voice soft.
"I love you," Lucien said. "I think I've loved you from the moment I saw you."
"I think I love you, too," Ernest said, his voice barely above a whisper.
Lucien's heart swelled with happiness. He pulled Ernest close, kissing him gently. "I'm so glad," he said. "I was afraid you didn't feel the same way."
"I do," Ernest laughed.
He kissed Ernest again, feeling happier than he ever had. He had the man he loved in his arms and never wanted to let him go.