Hermann shook his head, ducking his chin back into his scarf.

"Very lucid and extensively detailed for a dream," he remarked. "And I still can't believe you were dating me before we even established more than friendship."

Having thought nothing of these outings or shared bits of conversation. He'd just thought it a sort of peace offering after years of conflict. Something they could both enjoy on a casual level. But it was sweet, really, to think of Newton resorting to as many coffee/tea dates as he would agree to so early on in their friendship.

And as ever, it warmed him that even now, Newton was looking out for him. It seemed like such an unconscious effort anymore. Guarding him from the inconsiderate passersby while maintaining enough distance that he wasn't in danger of tripping them himself.

"No, we're very much awake and conscious of our decisions, Newton. You 'upgraded' me by professing your undying love and commitment long before we actually married. And we're doing rather well."