[For such a small, simple thing, the gentle kiss leaves something in his chest heavy and warm, and there's just the barest flush to Hubert's own cheeks as they part.]
[And Hubert seems to have stopped scowling for the time being, his features softening towards where they normally sat, even if they fell short. Still, the gentle, neutral expression was by far the closest Hubert's been to smiling since the departure of both of his Bonded.]
[He nods, and after a beat steps backwards (in a motion that regrettably draws Nicoletta's hand from his wrist) to offer her one of his formal bows, one hand across his chest and the other hand arm behind his back. His bow is just shallow enough to avoid dipping his head back under the mistletoe.]
no subject
[And Hubert seems to have stopped scowling for the time being, his features softening towards where they normally sat, even if they fell short. Still, the gentle, neutral expression was by far the closest Hubert's been to smiling since the departure of both of his Bonded.]
[He nods, and after a beat steps backwards (in a motion that regrettably draws Nicoletta's hand from his wrist) to offer her one of his formal bows, one hand across his chest and the other hand arm behind his back. His bow is just shallow enough to avoid dipping his head back under the mistletoe.]
I am free, yes. You have my thanks, Nicoletta.