[ If only they could just be themselves, with no titles that get in the way or responsibilities that constantly pull them away from each other. Still, in so many ways, they are married to their respective duties, but that does not mean that, at least for Aymeric, he does not wish to one day put all of that aside and simply be himself. He would not dream of assuming such things of Alkaid, but he cannot pretend to not have a dream that someday soon, they will finally be married and can begin to live as themselves and not as the Lord Speaker and the Warrior of Light.

So much of him is wrapped up in his various roles and duties, but he just wishes to be an ordinary man who gets to live a somewhat normal life.

Even though she nods and seems to understand, he feels as though there is an undercurrent of disappointment beneath the understanding, and he would give anything to be able to change that. For now, though, it seems that once again, there is little he can do. ]

I thank you for your understanding, Your Grace. [ But before he can continue, Nanamo also continues speaking, and once her words sink in, Aymeric's eyebrows lift. He had not realized that anyone had spotted the ring he gave to Alkaid, but part of him is pleased that Nanamo has seen it. He never intended for Alkaid to have to hide it, but he did not question her decision either, simply because it was her decision.

Once Nanamo has departed and the two of them are alone once more, he turns to her, reaching out to her and placing a hand against her forearm. ]

I would not worry about it overly much. Nanamo seems to have a certain gift of observation that others do not.

[ And then a gentle smile crosses his face as he rubs his hand comfortingly against her arm. ] Would it be so terrible a thing if it were truly obvious?

[ If he could, he would proclaim his love for her to the entire world, because at times, he feels as though he would simply burst because of all the love he has for her. ]