mads ☆

the amount of genuine care and attention madeleine shows in response to espresso’s behavior and actions is smth that he doesn’t do for anyone else, and that’s one of my favourite parts abt their relationship. he holds so much respect for him that he cannot grasp a scenario where espresso’s actions/thoughts clash with his idealistic version of espresso. because of that, espresso’s visions being further from his expectations is something he takes personally. it brings out these over-the-top reactions from him, but also some of the most genuine emotions and responses we see from his character.

the idea of espresso holding a grudge against him terrifies him, evident by his oh-so-rare-vulnerable voice. the sight of espresso being panicked returning to the republic surprises him, prompting him to dismiss the negativity and express how it will go fine, as ess worrying makes him unsteady. the idea of espresso siding with clotted cream's risky idea back at the council meeting triggered a disbelieving and betrayed tone within him, as he would expect ess to take his time to evaluate the situation rationally.

last one guys! sweetest most caring bf award goes to maddie