“You never asked.” They look so hopeful, so full of warmth, and Athos cannot help a faint smile, despite the ache that remains in his chest. This is why he tries not to interfere, why he has offered only the smallest and briefest comments on the matter of children, and the house, and all their other dreams - they look so happy when they speak of it, and he dare not risk uttering the wrong word that might break their hearts. But if he merely follows after them, will he ever feel as though he truly belongs?

“You have such plans," he adds, trying to stay light, "It is difficult to get a thought in edgewise, you know."