A new sense of normalcy.
Secrets no longer hanging over their heads fostered a more comfortable environment in which Desmond and Leonor thrived.
As much as the duchess wanted to push his buttons and test the bounds of their new relationship, she was holding back a lot for his sake.
While they were more comfortable than before, he still had walls she was trying to scale.
So far, he hadn't been willing to remove his hood except for the time she touched his scars in the garden.
That night was progress enough. She swore to be patient even though his closeness made her want far more.
Considering he was still a bit stiff around her, she had to appreciate just how much he cared for her to value her opinion. It was all she had until he allowed her to go further.
