Malleus is trying to forget. Unfortunately, that is proving rather difficult, especially with how close they are, and the way Lilia touches him so easily. It could be passed as simple affection, something not worth thinking about too deeply, but then a thumb presses against Malleus’ lip, and how is he supposed to not think strange things when Lilia does that?

The words, too. They settle warm and heavy in Malleus’ chest. It is a good thing he can’t read Lilia’s thoughts; he would absolutely protest the suggestion that he is cute.

“You are treating me like a child again.” Malleus sounds slightly sullen, but the red of his face doesn’t diminish.