Percy rests his head against Essek's, nose in his husband's hair as they settle together. His breathing steadies and slows as elegant fingers brush over his arm. He can't help a soft, huffed laugh at the praise.

"Mm," he hums his agreement. "I really could have broken the gentleman from Emon's jaw."

He smirks against Essek's hair, then presses a kiss to his brow. There's still a little flare of possessive annoyance when he thinks of the flirting, but it's fading more the longer he has Essek to himself. His fingers stroke down the line of his mate's spine and back up again.

"It could've been worse, if not for your cleverness." Essek's quick reaction, his social grace and maneuvering, then Percy likely would have done something regrettable.