Marius grins into the kisses, savoring the closeness and the warm water cocooning them. He lets out a breath and feels his soul unwind. "I suppose it should make me afraid, too," he agrees. "But really, even with everything this city has pulled, I feel quite happy."

He moves one hand to reach for Rat's, entwining their fingers together, as firm and sturdy as unspoken memory. "I admit, patience is not one of my strong suits," he says ruefully, giggling a bit. He sighs again and leans in as Rat combs through his hair.