Hermes didn't flinch when Raphael's hand pressed against his chest. He felt the warmth, the steady thrum of something not-quite-human, but he shoved it away with more force than necessary.
"Don't," Hermes muttered. His tone was hard, but not loud.
His gaze sharpened like broken glass. "This will never happen."
Raphael blinked, as if surprised Hermes even dared to push him. For a moment his lips parted like he'd argue….
But instead, he tilted his head, an amused flicker in his eyes.
"Strictly business, then?" Raphael asked softly.
Hermes crossed his arms, jaw tight. "Exactly. If you really want to play pretend for the cameras, fine. But let's not twist this into something it's not."
For once, Raphael didn't argue. He slipped his hands into his pockets, shoulders loose, almost casual. "Good. I was hoping you'd say that."
Hermes arched a brow, skeptical. "Were you?"
