All the stress of the day released the very second Charles felt her hands on him and his shoulders noticeably eased. He breathed in deeply and then exhaled, letting everything out. He was infinitely grateful that his parents had instilled in him while young to keep work where it was needed and not carry the trials of leadership into personal affairs.
He would gladly discuss everything that had transpired that day with Ananya, but he'd prefer to wait until morning at breakfast. Easily, his arms folded across his abdomen enabling him to rest his hands on top of hers.
“Mmm,” he made a noise of acknowledgment. He'd heard what she said, of course, but wasn't sure it was possible. Not because they couldn't but because of other matters that needed attending to. He could avoid those things, but it was proper and better for the people, if he did not. “Unfortunately, there are pressing matters of politics that might tie us up for a bit of time. I'll explain,” he sighed. “But, tomorrow.”
Charles turned, releasing one hand and tugged to bring her next to where he had been standing but now facing each other. Smiling at her, and it was a tired smile, he lifted one hand to run through her hair and down along her cheek to her chin. After the trials of the day, it was comforting to have her to come back to. “I thought you were sleeping, I tried to keep as quiet as possible.”