I have to take a moment to just let this sink in. Oh my god, it's so good. A little while later, I will be a flailing wreck, but right now, the story is too close, I'm overwhelmed with it. Holy shit, this is so good.
I can see this, you know? How Peter's self-doubt, coupled with the little snide whispers and hints of not good enough from those around him would leave him so utterly open to the sort of seductive betrayal that someone like Lucius would be so ready and willing to do. I just... wow. I am totally blown away. This is incredibly well written.
...And it's for me. Heh, I think the flail is starting to set in!!
Oh, thank you so much, mystery author! This is just the most fantastic thing ever and I am very much in love with it. You took a time and a pairing and a whole sociological setting and turned it around and made it real and harsh and beautiful and horrible. Thank you thank you thank you!