[ Anything they want to be - a concept Claude would've once thought novel in some ways until he'd broken away from the life which seemed predetermined for him to live another one entirely, and then found that compounded further by being brought to Abraxas. But it's been a chance for just that, hasn't it? It had taken time, but there's much he'd let go of from home after carrying it for years to embrace what being here means to the fullest.

Including this as Jesper turns to him and that smile's mirrored on his own face. An automatic reaction, but one he means unlike the many masks he'd worn before he hasn't reached for in some time. No need to, really, when contentment for this between the two of them as he returns that kiss despite what's looming overrides everything else. ]

Is it? Careful, I'm going to remember those words and you might just come to rue them when I remind you of your encouragement. [ He's partially serious. A grin stretches over Claude's face as he brings his own hand to cover the dear one resting on his face and to squeeze it lightly. ] Then again, some might say that's a particular charm of mine. I'd say it worked on you pretty well over time.

[ An exaggeration to go with it since there's no denying he was the one who took more time than needed to come around; Jesper's more than earned the right to tease him about it for all time. Because that's what Claude wants to believe they have - that the ritual won't be the end, but a step towards more time to come. ]

A good thing all the time we've about to spend together, though. I couldn't ask for anything better than that.