For a moment, Athos feels as though he has forgotten to stand without Aramis’ support; he takes a breath and finds his footing and steadiness, first clasping his hands behind his back, and then, seeing Aramis’ tie pushed off-kilter by their embrace, reaching out to straighten it.

“Tell the tailor that the suits are perfect,” he says with decided wryness, aware that that goes without saying. Clearing his throat as he steps back, he adds more gently, “Thank you.”

He owes Aramis and Porthos the world, and dearly hopes they know it - for their patience, and their steadiness, and yes, their love.