"I want to. Of course, I want to," Hal whispers fiercely, lifting his gaze from where their fingers are barely touching. But even that small brush is more than enough to remind him of the sacrifices this crown has demanded in this short time.

"But it is more... difficult now. There are eyes everywhere and I don't wish to expose you to unnecessary danger." How did his darling sister put it? They all have their own kingdoms behind their eyes? Hal hadn't even wanted this one and standing in Peter's humble abode makes him weak in the knees, wishing he'd been spared from this burden.

"I could," he whispers, bowing his head until he can feel the brush of Peter's hair against his cheek, "try to make time and come here every now and then."

Not too often or it'll rouse suspicion, but they are at the brink of a war with France, and the young king needs advanced weapons.