“I’m unimpressed.” Uriel uncrossed then recrossed his legs.

Ulrich scoffed and took a sip of tea. “You never are.”

Uriel pushed out his lips and rolled his eyes. “You say that like it’s a negative thing.”

“To some,” Ulrich pointed out, “it might.”

Uriel smirked. “And to you?”

“To me you are a gem.” Ulrich took another sip of his tea.

Elation took Uriel’s breath away. He loved Ulrich with everything he was, he only wished they could express that love all the time instead of just in their quarters. “As I am impressed by you.”

“To admit such a thing sounds like a declaration of some sort.” Ulrich set down his tea. One of his hands disappeared under the table to settle on Uriel’s thigh. It was the briefest of touches, a momentary squeeze but it was all Uriel needed.

Uriel cast his gaze towards Ulrich with a gentle smile. He leaned in, invading Ulrich’s personal space. The smell of soap and something totally Ulrich took him away. “It shall be my admittance of love.” He whispered.

“Then please,” Ulrich turned in, their mouths were close, so close a kiss would be easy, “declare your impression more often.”

“Once this match is over I shall show you my declaration.” Uriel sipped his tea and shifted a little trying to relieve the growing pressure in his pants.

“And I shall happily witness your declaration.”

The two of them turned their attention to the Count of Umbrick as he approached. Ulrich knew they would suffer the Count’s company together but at least they were together. They’d been together for years and would be for years more. To the world they were houses forged together under the banner of peace and friendship. It was a half lie Uriel didn’t mind portraying but he wished they could divulge the full truth.

“Count Umbrick,” Ulrich motioned towards the empty seat, “please, join us.”

“Why thank you Marquess Ulyssa, Marquess Unice. It’d be my honor.” Count Umbrick sat down  and his butler poured him a cup of tea.

He would suffer Umbrick if only for face until later tonight when he and Ulrich could finally be alone.