Together.
Albus can't help but to smile. Even if Gellert doesn't mean the word the way Albus wishes, it's a start.
The other boy doesn't notice that his companion isn't really paying attention. Gellert is too caught up in his plans, scribbling little notes, to notice much of anything. "Everything we've ever dreamed, Albus," he continues passionately, not looking up from his writing. "No more hiding in the shadows like lesser men."
The blue eyed youth only nods. Yes, he dreams the things that Gellert desires. He dreams of a day of freedom, a day when those like the Muggles who attacked his dear sister will be made to pay. In the beginning, it had been his only dream. Now, Albus also longs for something else.
"Side by side," Gellert presses, finally looking up with a crooked grin. "The two of us, together, will lead the wizarding world out into the open. No shame in who we are. No hiding and pretending."
There it is, that word again. Together. It is what Albus dreams of.
"Friends. Equals."
Lovers.
But Albus doesn't dare to speak the word aloud. Some dreams are best keep within the dreamer's head.