On the way, Adrien kept glancing at Val and wanting to speak to him without fear - but shame strangled the words out of his throat. It was Val who had to initiate most of the conversation; that day, he seemed to be in a particularly good mood - and Adrien felt himself sink every time he caught a glance of his smiling face. He knew how difficult this day was going to be for Val; he knew about his doubts and fears - he alone knew, he remarked with a stab of self-reproach as he noticed the black gloves that had to cover Val's hands once again. Maybe, Adrien thought, maybe Val's smile was also because of him - a smile of gratitude for being at his side in this moment. Gathering all of his strength, Adrien swallowed down his chaos, put up his bravest face, and went on the best he could. He could not allow his turmoil to take over - not there, not then.