Something happy for once. Roughly 8 mths post S3 (which I still haven't finished _ )
"Praying for good weather?" a wry voice sounds from behind him.
Aramis laughs in surprise, concludes his recitations.
"For many things," he confesses, accepting his friend's arm as he rises. "I didn't hear you come in."
"Apparently not."
"You came alone?" Aramis asks.
"As requested. You are certain about this?"
"Athos."
"I agree you haven't much choice in the matter now," Athos continues mildly, "but I seem to recall being offered the use of your horse – it seems only fair that I do the same."
Aramis shakes his head, grinning. "I'm glad you're here," he says, momentarily serious. "Though I can't help but regret that this is another of my secrets you'll be forced to keep."
"I've borne witness to everything else; I could hardly miss this," Athos remarks.
A side door opens and, Constance at her side, Anne emerges from the vestry, hair loose and dress draping over the unconcealable swell of her belly. At first, she has eyes only for Aramis but, catching sight of Athos, she smiles.
Athos leans in, speaking very quietly as they approach, "I must ask-"
"Of course, you must. But forgive my not answering."
"You reckless fools." Spoken without heat.
"Monsieur le Comte," Anne greets, offering her hand. "Athos. We have missed you - you must attend court more often!"
Athos' bows, his feelings on that matter betrayed only by a tightening around his eyes.
Constance beams. "My husband would cheer."
The men laugh, and Anne takes Aramis' hand, smiling. "As would mine."
Sing it with me: #Going to the chapel, and we're gonna get...#
Wondering just how many times in the course of my various writings people have said "Athos" in italics...