Athos hums softly as Aramis’ fingers leave his mouth, and clings to him as they kiss, as though with the embrace Athos could absorb Aramis’ easy confidence. He swallows and looks at Porthos, seeking some shred of reassurance in his uncertain, expectant expression. Whether or not he finds it, he has come too far to change his mind now.

Taking a breath and nodding faintly, he moves across the bed once Porthos is seated, and catching his gaze for a moment, lowers himself to the floor. Running his hand up Porthos’ thighs, Athos looks up to meet his gaze with a faint smile. “If you will permit me."