He isn't sure how to act but of course Hal crosses all invisible barriers and walks right up to him, all smiles and familiar touches. It makes Peter's insides turn pleasantly and he visibly relaxes, returning that smile. They haven't been alone like this since he was crowned and Peter doesn't know what to do with himself. Knowing things don't necessarily have to change between them is... comforting. He hopes that's the case anyway.

"Nothing too special, I was just finishing the new proposal for these canon designs. I think I found a way to make them faster, without causing irreparable damage..." It's more "work" than a personal project, obviously, but even this late at night his mind can't rest. Seeing his old friend smiling and more relaxed has thoroughly distracted Peter from it though, and he follows softly: "I think the haircut suits you."

No, they really haven't seen each other in ages, have they? He takes a moment to look at Hal under the softer glow of candlelight and finds it suits him far better when he's this close, rather than sitting up on a throne he begrudgingly accepted.

"I was actually just thinking about you," he admits carefully, color rising to his cheeks so easily. "And then you appeared at my door as if by magic. Were you listening?"