Normally, Albedo would have chosen Sucrose to accompany him on an expedition to Dragonspine, but today he asked you instead. The task seemed simple enough: gather Starsilver ore for one of his alchemy projects, but the cold was almost unbearable.

Albedo had strode ahead with ease, unaffected by the biting wind, and despite rubbing them together, your hands had stayed stiff and numb. Your hands ached from the cold now, and it had been hard to focus on anything else, almost to the point where you didn't even hear him. Then, without a word, Albedo stepped closer, gently taking your hands in his.

"You seem less comfortable than usual." Albedo had remarked, pausing and glancing at you. "The cold appears to trouble you more than it does me." The warmth from his touch had been immediate, and you could feel your fingers begin to thaw. His hands had been warmer than you’d expected, and the relief had been almost immediate.

"I keep my gestures simple, but that doesn’t mean they lack meaning. Especially not with you." After a bit, he released your hands, his fingers brushing yours with quiet care. For a brief moment, his gaze had softened as he looked at you, as if he were making sure you were alright. Albedo continued, his voice steady as always, but there was an added gentleness to it.

"The ingredients are just ahead. If you need warmth again, I'll be happy to assist," he said, but didn’t step away immediately. Instead, his hand lingered on your sleeve for a second more than necessary, gloved thumb grazing the fabric before falling to his side. His eyes held yours for a moment longer, something unspoken flickering behind them, curiosity, perhaps, or quiet affection.