marianne and dedue? in the dimitri/marianne paired ending marianne would inevitably be spending a Lot of time with dedue which fascinates me. also they would just be cute in general.
I think I have just the thing for you.
When Marianne woke up, she found she was moving. She didn't remember getting up. The last thing she remembered was sitting in her study, going over old records that needed to be recounted. The paperwork of the Kingdom had been seriously neglected even before the war. So she and Dimitri had been working day and night to reorganize them.
But right now, Dimitri was at the Central Church for a meeting with the Archbishop, and then head to the Locket to meet with the new King of Almyra for peace talks. She could still remember the look of excitement on her husband's face when he spoke of this meeting. She'd been invited to come with him, but they were so behind on their work as is. So Marianne chose to stay to ensure they didn't fall further. And other reasons.
Which is why she fell asleep at her desk. Again. For the third time this week.
And why she didn't panic when she realized she was being carried back to her room.
"How long was I out?" she asked.
"About thirty minutes," Dedue answered. "I already called for a maid to help you change."
"Thank you." She leaned her head against his shoulder, letting herself relax in his arms. "Dedue? May I ask you something....personal?"
Dedue nodded. "You may. Though I am not sure I will answer."
"...do you love Dimitri?"
His steps slowed. "Why do you ask?"
She shrugged. "I've noticed the way you look at him when no one else is looking. It's the same face he makes when looking at me..."
Dedue let out a sigh. "I know where your mind is wandering. Rest assured, I am content with my place at his side. And you make his Majesty happy. So whatever it is you are about to say, don't."
"But-"
"Do you love his Majesty?"
"Of course-"
"Then there's nothing to fear. As long as Dimitri is happy, that's what matters. And he's happiest when he has you by his side" He smiled, a little awkwardly, as a warm chuckle bubbled from his throat. "It's actually why I chose to stay this time."
She stared at him. "Huh?"
Dedue looked her over carefully, letting out a soft 'ah' in understanding. "I see. You didn't tell him yet, did you?"
"How...." Marianne sighed, her own laugh bubbling to the surface. "You knew?"
He nodded. "Wasn't hard to figure out. Rest easy, I will leave it to you to inform him. In the meantime, I will stay and watch over you both."
All the stress and fear from the last few weeks melted away. Marianne let herself melt into the safety of her friend's arms, listening to the beating of his heart as she rested against his chest.
"I'm glad you're here, Dedue. Thank you. But...remember...Dimitri cares for you as well..."
"...I know."
"....Dedue?"
"Yes?"
"Will...you stay by my bedside? Until I fall asleep again?" She nuzzled in closer. "I do not want to fall asleep alone again..."
"Of course," he assured. "I will not leave your side until you are fully asleep."
"Thank you."
