That look in Horatio's eyes like he's trapped is like a punch to the gut. It has Archie shifting just a little; settling somewhat heavily into a chair. That shake of Horatio's head earns a definitive twist of Archie's lips.

Perhaps they'd misread. Perhaps Horatio didn't want--

But surely he and William can't be so wrong. He can't help the glance towards the second lieutenant, seeking a sense of certainty, before he moves forward in the conversation again.

"'ratio--" His voice trembles just slightly, and he frowns all the further at the momentary weakness in his tone, "Just-- for my sake, and you don't-- even need to actually say the words, but just-- If the rules weren't in our way, would you-- want this?"