[ Ferdinand's brow creases slightly, out of confusion or some small hurt or both, as Hubert tries once again to put an end to this before it can even begin. Attraction, want, buzzes between them like a physical force, and yet Hubert comes at him with more talk of duty and distraction, as if--

And there it is, the sudden light of realization in Ferdinand's eyes, and, of all things, he laughs. ]

Oh, Hubert. I can keep my personal life and my duties separate, but if you have never had the former I can see why you do not know such a thing is possible.

[ Hubert's whole life has revolved around Edelgard, his every moment devoted to her to the point where he didn't know he could even have moments for himself. ]