[Sometimes, it feels good to just be gentle. It's something personal and private that they share, that two nations with such reputations towards violence of one way or another can be so tender when they are together. Surely, Arthur thinks, the others wouldn't believe it if they were told but there is a good reason that he and Ivan do not actively broadcast their relationship, and it isn't only for the stares and dumbfounded looks that it would inevitably gain.

Slowly, while he kisses the man he works his fingers up underneath his shirt, brushing over the skin beneath and sliding them upwards to trace along the sweep of his ribcage]