I think Pauliana's love will come in the "I'm most comfortable with him"-form, instead of the "I love you"-form. It'll be one of those revelations that'll cause her to self-reflect on a while, before realizing that it wouldn't really change the relationship they have now.
After that, I just imagine them both drinking, dissing each other about their loveless lives and Pauliana's somehow managing to overpower the poor maiden Emperor in a fit of passion. Alongside the guaranteed hangover the next day… 🤣