Carl smiled faintly. "Someone has to balance out your stubbornness."
Arthur nodded once, then stepped forward and pulled him into a brief, firm hug. Neither spoke. They didn't need to.
When he stepped back, his throat felt tight. "Goodbye, Carl," he said finally, voice low. "And… thank you. For everything."
Carl's eyes softened. "Don't say goodbye like that," he said, half smiling again. "It sounds too final. Just say, see you later."
Arthur didn't answer, but his eyes did.
Carl exhaled, clapped him lightly on the shoulder. "Now get back to that coronation," he said, tone turning lighter. "You're her partner for the dance, remember? Don't keep everyone waiting just because you're out here being dramatic."
Arthur blinked, half incredulous. "Are you seriously—"
