[ it's just as well that he doesn't make the connection — if it ever becomes relevant in the future, perhaps then charles will readily admit what it was for... but for now, he's all too happy to just think of it all as a nice date activity for the two of them. and he's determined to make it nice, too! ]

Right, [ he says, a little bit fond, a little bit teasing, ] Just worried they're gonna throw you off their back.

[ he remembers their horse discussion during his ketsora time very vividly... but also, ] Bloody hell, I know you don't mean that literally, but don't even joke. Overalls look fucking terrible.

[ oh, right, speaking of fashion snobbery — ] That reminds me, we need to get you some better clothes, don't we? [ he drops a kiss on junpei's head before he raises his head from where it's been resting against his, and gives him a once-over. ]

Not that you don't look lovely already, but... can that be my birthday wish? Seeing you in a proper button-up?