The devious look in Zeus's eye winked of co-conspiracy. Hades hadn't seen that look directed at him since the Titanomachy. Even though he hadn't grown up with his youngest brother, it didn't take long to learn that it was better to be on the inside of that look instead of the target. It made Hades a bit apprehensive, but it also made him glad he came, even if admitting the problem was difficult. That look accomplished things. Hades could not comment on the parenting situation between Zeus and Demeter, mostly because he didn't want to think about that, but he could agree that Demeter was being ridiculous. Hades almost always thought Demeter was being ridiculous.
Hades was a bit stunned when he was given Zeus's blessing. He hadn't been entirely sure he'd get that. It was a nice gesture, and Hades was beginning to think maybe there were things about his brother that he didn't give quite enough credit. Maybe the king of the Olympians had more moments than Hades had seen. Maybe Hades hadn't been entirely fair. “Thank you,” Hades said. And he meant it.
For a second he almost smiled, but then the situation suddenly became real. Hades had his brother's blessing, but there were still a lot of obstacles. Most of them seemed insurmountable. Demeter was still decidedly in the way. Along with Persephone's other suitors. Even if Hades somehow managed to steal a little time with her, it wouldn't be enough. He didn't make a fantastic first impression, and Hades didn't know the first thing about courtship, or....romance, or women. Especially not one that was spring. What chance did death have with life in a world where life ruled? Hades didn't think there was one.
“I'll need a way to spend time with her,” Hades said, “Away from Demeter.” Demeter would poison it from the start, if she had any idea. What he really needed was to get Persephone down in his realm. They just needed to figure out a way how.