[ as usual, the first amount of contact unfurls the desire for more like a flower blooming in the light of spring. but, she knows pushing the boundaries while Viago is still warming up will end in disappointment for them both. so, she is patient, waits until he returns the touch, his long fingers folding over hers and giving them an affectionate squeeze. the unspoken thank you shines in his eyes, a faint crinkle of happiness tugging at the corners.

if she didn't know him, she never would have been able to pick it out. she's spent countless hours learning how to read and speak Viago, though, and was probably the best aside from Rook. Viago's not one to show his fragile feelings in a way that's obvious, instead opting for a subtlety that often felt invisible. sometimes, it's been frustrating. Teia has settled on being glad that she gets these glimpses, because focusing on the negative is something she leaves in Viago's court. ]

I think your Crows and Fledglings like you more than you would imagine, Vi. [ that isn't to say they're going to be overly friendly towards the head of their house. easy camaraderie and being able to switch between that and being a leader was not a skill Viago was particularly good at. ] Do I need to start corrupting an upcoming Fledgling to keep an eye on you while you're in Salle?

[ she asks around a grin, letting herself get reeled into his embrace. the grin softens as he kisses her fingers, her heart skipping its usual beat; how he always manages to make her feel like she's indulging in a girlish love, she doesn't know. perhaps he has poisoned her. or used one of his influencing balms. a cologne, maybe. whatever the case, she gives in willingly. ]

Peace was never an option, as you well know. Clearly, signore, you're underfed, underslept, and underkissed, if you need my professional diagnosis.

[ on that note, she leans into his hold some more and gently tugs her hand free so she could wrap her arms around his middle, chin against his chest as she keeps his gaze. ] I missed you.