[This earnest praise was not uncommon from Dimitri - or any of his students, for that fact, though some were more forthcoming than others. Byleth always took the praise in stride, yet cherished it every time, feeling warm and proud that he had such a significant impact on those that had been under his care. It never made him flustered, and he always was able to respond in kind.

This time was different. He didn't know if it was because of the kiss, or the squirmy restlessness that had overcome him, or just how Dimitri held both of his hands while saying such lovely things and looking at him like- like that, but... whatever the reason, Byleth felt himself go utterly red, and was briefly rendered speechless, taking a moment to negotiate with his brain long enough to remember what words were.]

Ah, I, um, I-I do, of course. Yes.

[...he was beginning to understand why people in love made fools of themselves now. It was strangely hard to think when someone you cared about dazzled at you like that. How lethal... if Dimitri ever weaponised that smile...]

Believe you, I mean. [With iron control, he swiftly regained his composure. He tried to ignore his mild embarrassment.] I'm happy you think of me that way. I... worry, sometimes, that I still give off a cold impression, when I don't intend to.