"We are fortunate to have you," Eva said, mostly watching Brayden with reassurance on her face. They were all friends and family, and a small group at that. There was no need for him to be on edge. After Nate's grateful affections washed over her, she gave him a warm smile and moved around Thor to get to the younger Zale. She hugged Brayden tightly, but not too lingering, then kissed his head because she couldn't help herself (yes, he was taller than her so she'd had to tip-toe). She'd been standing between father and son, then turned to face Caltrops. "Please promise it won't," she said, of his silence not lasting, then touched his shoulder in congratulations. Her smile remained as she headed back to her seat, then Zap took Thor's hand and kissed his fingers once, unabashedly. "I'm so glad for you, my king," she beamed, clearly happy to have a husband so open and kind and good. Eva hoped she was his match in those arenas.
Loki groaned. It went ignored. Good.
As for Brayden... he'd nearly groaned himself when he realized and recalled the duties of a squire. Asgard had a different name, but he was the low man on the totem pole. He steeled himself for the hug from the queen and nodded with great focus as the king spoke directly to him with a bit of advice. "Thank you, your majesties." At least he was on the totem pole now, right?