[ This is progress, he thinks. Hubert is no longer trying to push him away with excuses, and even gives some bit of ground. For all that Ferdinand thinks heart, he is not completely incapable of logic, and it seems that Hubert has at least seen some wisdom in his words.

Hubert even goes so far as to say he doesn't regret their dance - doesn't regret anything - and something warm wraps around Ferdinand's heart, bringing and open and affectionate sort of smile to his face. If someone had told him years, even months, ago that he would find himself falling for Hubert of all people, he'd have thought them mad. Now, however, it feels like the easiest thing in the world. ]

I would have been surprised if you were.

[ His tone very much mirrors the way he looks at Hubert. A fond joke, then, rather than any sort of true judgement. ]

Even knowing that does not change the way I feel. I do not want this because I think it will be perfect. I want this... because it is you.