[ Is that not what he s? A precious thing that should be kept close rather than at arms length? At least Theo has been growing more fond now than he had in the past. More and more he is finding that this time he's not sure how it is that even he will let go.
Not that Theo is right now. Oh no. That is the farthest thing in his mind at the moment. Because he has his hands already on the Exarch. If anyone is being selfish, it is the Viera. He's not really giving him a chance to speak, not at first. Not with that kiss. Yeah, it might make the Exarch's position sift enough to drive deeper, not that Theo minds. Quite the contrary, really. So while that not entirely a growl, but sort of a growl fills the space between them, Theo also makes an embarrassing sound.
The comment, however, even with the second kiss coming and Theo electing to be something of a brat and rocking his hips in encouragement, makes Theo laugh. Breathlessly, but laugh all the same. It comes against lips, enough that the Exarch can likely feel the smile there. ]
If it is an consolation... I also prefer with.
[ Now his hands once more find the base of the Exarch's ears. Thumbs rub in small circles as he brings their lps together again. ]
[ He whispers it back against Theo's lips, pushing his own smile into them. and it feels strange to say it aloud. Presumptuous, to tease Theo about wanting him here, knowing that that wanting will fade as this condition passes (it will. It must, because if it does not he has endangered everything in his selfishness). And Good. He wants to say it again, I know that you want me here, over and over, to keep feeling the smile on Theo's lips. He can practically taste the laughter, and that precious, beautiful sound that escaped him when their position changed.
Perhaps he would say it again, save for that the rocking of Theo's own hips against him knocks the air out of his lungs again. The lips sealed against his own that the thumbs massaging the sensitive base of his ears keep him from breathing in again. It's all he can do to still his own hips long enough to maintain what ragged composure he has left, and only most of the moan that leaves him when he finally manages to get enough air into his body for it is muted by Theo's lips. ]
You might make it easier, if you would rather I be here. [ It's not really a complaint. He slides his spoken hand upward from Theo's hip, stroking over his ribs and then sliding beneath his back so he can trail his fingers back down over his spine, press fingertips in to the spot where tail meets body. Testing to see if the nerves there are as sensitive on a viera as they are on a mystel. ] You are not the only one struggling with restraint, I fear.
[ It won't pass, really. If anything this stolen moment in time may only serve to solidify those emotional attachments.
And, really, who is the one being precious? Delicious? Because Theo is fairly certain that it is the Exarch. Even the Viera can tell that the man is only still because his senses are being overwhelmed in this moment. Everything must feel good because he's pretty sure that he can feel those hands tighten about his hips just a fraction and that smile never leaves Theo's features. He can hear it when the other breathes again. Feel that moan and the red mage happily devours it along with those lips.
He hums at the statement, looking a little more than content. ]
How might I go about that?
[ Make it easier... Really where is the fun in that? Now Theo is just shamelessly flirting even as that hand snakes about his own body. His ears perk forward once he realizes where it is they are going. And, sure enough, the Exarch is about to find out that the area is, in fact, just as sensitive.
Because Theo gasps and his thighs squeeze at the other's hips. ]restraint?
[ Ah, that is good to know. He'd wondered, viera using their tails for balance so much less than miqo'te, if they were still as very sensitive. But they must be, because that squeeze of thighs around his hips. He presses his fingertips into the place where, on a miqo'te's body, a cluster of nerves would be measuring the position and weight of the tail.]
It has been- some time. [ There's that phrase again. Some time. If in a very different context. An excuse of sorts, this time. It takes him a few seconds to continue, mostly because it's embarrassing. ] If you wish this to last much longer, you may need to contain yourself just a little more.
[ They don't use them quite like Miqo'te do. It's to enhance agility. However they are meant for body language and are very sensitive. So give him a moment because as the Exarch squeezes, Theo might actually bite onto the shoulder still made of flesh to muffle his own sound, ears pressing back against his head. ]
Then... [ He has to take in a deep breath. Because a clear head is needed and conversations are becoming... Difficult. ] We may have a problem.
[ Since containing himself doesn't seem to be an option for much longer. ]
We may. [ The chuckle is breathless, but no less warm for it. It's a little embarrassing, perhaps, to already be so close. And he draws the line, apparently, at using the tower's power to sustain himself in this. ] Apologies. I am not the man I once-
[ And then Theo bites down, perhaps a little harder than he intended to, and the capability for coherent speech all but leaves him.
He avoids saying Theo's name when speaking to him. It's a cruel precaution. A name is a memorable sound, and the risk that he might say it in a dead man's voice is too great. He is my friend, my Warrior, our Warrior of Darkness. Any number of titles, to avoid saying one word.
He says it now, between ragged breaths, in an almost awestruck tone that his mind hasn't quite recognised as his own voice for decades. As he gives up on exploring Theo's body for a moment to instead just wrap his arms tightly around it. The movement of his hips is less slow, now, less careful and controlled. ]
[ Does it matter? The Exarch keeps going back to that: "I'm not the man I once was." Theo's pretty sure that he's heard it several times over. It really doesn't matter because no one ever truly is. Even he is not the same as he had been when he had been a youth of but twenty.
No apologies needed. Though maybe the Viera will apologize later for biting as hard as he has. But then again he's providing the other with plenty of kisses with a grazing of teeth and tongue between ragged breaths. Surely that more than makes up for it.
Of course his ears will pick up the way that the Exarch says his name. His name. No titles, but a name. Later, it will register fully. But his ears react even if his mind doesn't just yet - twitching and moving about.
But the both of them are at a loss for words and Theo has to keep his own mouth occupied. Having him slip is vastly different than the Exarch. So he can't allow it either. Thus he continues to kiss at the flesh of the shoulder and then all the way up to the neck. Perhaps leaving a few more marks himself. The Exarch might find legs carefully wrapping about him and even Theo attempting to match the movement of hips. ]
[ It means very little, really, that he is not the man he once was. It's hardly as if the man he once was would do any better. Perhaps even worse, though he's hardly had opportunity to test either way.
Whichever man he is, past or present, tugs Theo close through a few last, shallow, shuddering thrusts. With a slow, careful exhale, he slips out from him, voice increasing to a soft almost-whine as his oversensitive flesh drags over Theo's. But his arms maintain their tight hold. He isn't ready to let go yes. He's not entirely certain he's ever going to be. ]
[ And it will be, unfortunately, the man that he is now that may yet pave the way for the man he once was. Or however that will turn out.
But it would seem that words fail them both in the coming moments. Rather than speaking with any words, it is the movement of bodies tangled up in a dance that is as old as life itself. Just sounds of unsteady breathing and the sensation of heat building until it reaches a breaking point for the both of them. At one moment or another, Theo's hands have found purchase on the flesh of the Exarch's back - likely leaving slightly angry red trails with trimmed nails. Finding relief brings about a euphoric bliss that Theo had long forgotten existed.
It's with that satisfaction that his head falls back against the pillow, not letting go either but body wonderfully spent and pliable. For now. It's a brief time of respite before it will likely start back up again. The immediate need has been dealt with, for now, and that is what matters.
Trying to find his breath ( and maybe voice ) is a struggle since there's evidence of how content he is softly rumbling in his chest; and Theo fully intends to hold the Exarch there for a while yet. ]
[ He lets himself fall over Theo, lying against him warm even in the glass of his altered skin, purring contented rumbling noises against his chest.
Half his body stings from those nails, the other aches from exertion and bites. But it's good, to ache from something so perfect. To feel pain, and good pain, on his own terms instead of the slow agony of the tower consuming him ilm by ilm.
It takes him a while to slide down from on top of Theo's body to his side. When he does, he sets about stroking fingertips softly over his hip. ]
[ Before the Exarch can slip away completely, The makes sure that his arm pillows that head. All so that he can reach ears and hair. Stroke them with more affection than is necessary.
This had easily been one of the better moments that the red mage has spent during this particular time. Though this is a first that he has wanted more; that he wants to come back to this. Well to the Exarch in particular.
Does he want his sight back? Sure, but at the moment it'd only be so he can see a face that doesn't want to be shown to him. ]
Then we shall remain as we are. This is- [ Everything he ever wanted, and far more than he could have dared to hope. For the first time he wants to dispense with the secrecy not for conscience's sake, but just to let Theo know how happy he is. ] -more than agreeable.
[ He purrs contentedly as Theo's hands stroke at his ears and hair. In a way that seems almost affectionate. There remains more, it seems, that he does not dare to hope for. He still does not dare hope for real affection. But he's more than content to glut himself upon this. ]
I perhaps should have been more careful. [ He says eventually, reaching up to the bruising at Theo's neck, preparing to heal it. ] Apologies. I should not want my carelessness to give you cause to think yourself anything less than precious to me.
[ More than agreeable is... Putting it lightly. Theo finds that he likes the feel of the hand on his skin. Feeling the soft ( but worn ) fur along those ears. He tilts his head so he can press lips against the Exarch's forehead.
Again, just affectionate. It's not "seems." It just flat out is. Yes, Theo's current condition and state of mind may make him want the other close. Shower him with care and adoration. However some of that stems from Theo's own feelings that have nothing to do with that. ]
Good. After all it seems rather pointless as this could potentially happen again.
[ He feels the fingers brush against his skin. Senses the slight spike in aether and catches the other's wrist. He brings it to his mouth, brushes lips against knuckles. ]
You needn't worry. Not about being careful and not about needing to heal them. Perhaps I might like to wear them for longer yet.
That it could. [ And he likes to think that he sounds perfectly normal and calm, saying that. But his ears are twice as warm as they were a second ago, and one flicks into Theo's hand. ] T'would be- t'would be more than agreeable.
[ Apparently that's just the phrase he's using to describe everything he wants now. The expressions of want were necessary before, because without them, Theo would never have accepted this. Now it seems indulgent again, unforgivably, discussing what he wants so directly.
The healing spell dies away into a soothing, pleasant, otherwise useless pulse of aether. Not even enough to reduce the swelling of bruised lips. ]
I might have been more artful, had I known you were meaning to wear my work.
[ The action and the words themselves makes Theo chuckle, warm breath fanning over the hand still being held to his lips. ]
I'm glad that you find it agreeable. [ Word of the day. ] While I may yet have clarity in this moment, I assure you that it won't last. We're at the peak currently so I will not be fully satisfied for another day or two yet.
[ So why would he let the other go? He might be holding the Exarch to his words from earlier. To take care of Theo and see him through this. What does it matter if it is indulgent? Theo's mood is such that he doesn't think of it as a problem. It seems perfectly reasonable to just... Allow themselves this.
He places the hand back at his hip. Then sighs and seems to attempt to nuzzle into that hair and ears. That is... That does imply more than just wanting sexual gratification, huh? ]
You still have plenty of opportunities to rectify that mistake.
Then I shall be here 'til you are, if you will have me.
[ It does feel like more, and he finds himself at war with himself over it. He wants it to be more. Desperately. And he wants it to be only a quirk of Theo's condition, just as desperately.
If it is as truly affectionate as it feels, it is more than he ever dated to want. And he has doomed two worlds.
But his hand is stroking over Theo's hip again. A face is burying itself in his hair. ]
Perhaps I shall. T'would be a shame not to leave you something worth the wearing.
"If I will have you" he says. Do not act as though I am settling.
[ After all this? This is not duty. Relief, yes, but not duty bound by any means. Theo could have managed on his own but had accepted the Exarch's aid. Accepted him.
Of course Theo will return to being the Warrior that everyone needs him to be once this is all over. Denying his own needs and that will include these stolen moments as well. But he'll look back and think on them fondly.
[ The Exarch's mouth parts. That much is audible. Swollen lips forming enough seal that the opening of it makes a quiet little sound, and then a slightly different quality to the noise of his breath. What is this, if not settling? How could it be anything but, when he has given Theo so little to know of him?
(He has, of course, given Theo far more information than he realises. Oh, he may have yet to play his hand. But he has managed to show Theo every card in it. And he has, even before today, made it perhaps more clear than he ever intended to that Theo means everything to him.
It may have slipped his mind that his actions speak for him just as much as his secrets would.)
His mouth parts, but for a long time he says nothing. ]
[ Theo's ears are twitching, listening to every sound. They are more sensitive at the moment, attuned for listening to the more subtle sounds that another Viera could make. Anything to give indications of mood or discomfort. All this so he can meet his partner's needs.
So he's aware that the Exarch is struggling with words. Granted, the Viera can put two and two together, especially since the Exarch has no idea that Theo knows his true identity. ]
You are thinking far too much. I can almost hear it.
[ Because words often say one thing and then actions another. Theo doesn't necessarily need the words to know that the Exarch cares - that this does have meaning for him as well. So when he finally speaks, Theo's free hand slips down to cup a cheek. ]
Do not think that I will not give it my best over the course of the next few days, my dear tower keeper.
[ Then he thinks to seal that little promise with a kiss. ]
Only to plot terrible, villainous acts, I assure you.
[ The words come with a soft snort of not-quite laughter. And
And they have kissed already, throughout this. Over and over. And yet it is still achingly beautiful, when Theo's lips touch his. Even a kiss like this, small and quick and almost playful sets his mind reeling, leaving it empty of thoughts.
He can't quite manage the horrible thought that Theo is here only for the sake of necessity, not in the seconds after that kiss. So instead he just answers, whispering words against Theo's lips. ]
I look forward to it. To every second at your side.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
sandwichbasket) wrote2021-11-26 01:03 am
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Not that Theo is right now. Oh no. That is the farthest thing in his mind at the moment. Because he has his hands already on the Exarch. If anyone is being selfish, it is the Viera. He's not really giving him a chance to speak, not at first. Not with that kiss. Yeah, it might make the Exarch's position sift enough to drive deeper, not that Theo minds. Quite the contrary, really. So while that not entirely a growl, but sort of a growl fills the space between them, Theo also makes an embarrassing sound.
The comment, however, even with the second kiss coming and Theo electing to be something of a brat and rocking his hips in encouragement, makes Theo laugh. Breathlessly, but laugh all the same. It comes against lips, enough that the Exarch can likely feel the smile there. ]
If it is an consolation... I also prefer with.
[ Now his hands once more find the base of the Exarch's ears. Thumbs rub in small circles as he brings their lps together again. ]
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[ He whispers it back against Theo's lips, pushing his own smile into them. and it feels strange to say it aloud. Presumptuous, to tease Theo about wanting him here, knowing that that wanting will fade as this condition passes (it will. It must, because if it does not he has endangered everything in his selfishness). And Good. He wants to say it again, I know that you want me here, over and over, to keep feeling the smile on Theo's lips. He can practically taste the laughter, and that precious, beautiful sound that escaped him when their position changed.
Perhaps he would say it again, save for that the rocking of Theo's own hips against him knocks the air out of his lungs again. The lips sealed against his own that the thumbs massaging the sensitive base of his ears keep him from breathing in again. It's all he can do to still his own hips long enough to maintain what ragged composure he has left, and only most of the moan that leaves him when he finally manages to get enough air into his body for it is muted by Theo's lips. ]
You might make it easier, if you would rather I be here. [ It's not really a complaint. He slides his spoken hand upward from Theo's hip, stroking over his ribs and then sliding beneath his back so he can trail his fingers back down over his spine, press fingertips in to the spot where tail meets body. Testing to see if the nerves there are as sensitive on a viera as they are on a mystel. ] You are not the only one struggling with restraint, I fear.
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And, really, who is the one being precious? Delicious? Because Theo is fairly certain that it is the Exarch. Even the Viera can tell that the man is only still because his senses are being overwhelmed in this moment. Everything must feel good because he's pretty sure that he can feel those hands tighten about his hips just a fraction and that smile never leaves Theo's features. He can hear it when the other breathes again. Feel that moan and the red mage happily devours it along with those lips.
He hums at the statement, looking a little more than content. ]
How might I go about that?
[ Make it easier... Really where is the fun in that? Now Theo is just shamelessly flirting even as that hand snakes about his own body. His ears perk forward once he realizes where it is they are going. And, sure enough, the Exarch is about to find out that the area is, in fact, just as sensitive.
Because Theo gasps and his thighs squeeze at the other's hips. ]restraint?
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It has been- some time. [ There's that phrase again. Some time. If in a very different context. An excuse of sorts, this time. It takes him a few seconds to continue, mostly because it's embarrassing. ] If you wish this to last much longer, you may need to contain yourself just a little more.
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Then... [ He has to take in a deep breath. Because a clear head is needed and conversations are becoming... Difficult. ] We may have a problem.
[ Since containing himself doesn't seem to be an option for much longer. ]
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[ And then Theo bites down, perhaps a little harder than he intended to, and the capability for coherent speech all but leaves him.
He avoids saying Theo's name when speaking to him. It's a cruel precaution. A name is a memorable sound, and the risk that he might say it in a dead man's voice is too great. He is my friend, my Warrior, our Warrior of Darkness. Any number of titles, to avoid saying one word.
He says it now, between ragged breaths, in an almost awestruck tone that his mind hasn't quite recognised as his own voice for decades. As he gives up on exploring Theo's body for a moment to instead just wrap his arms tightly around it. The movement of his hips is less slow, now, less careful and controlled. ]
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No apologies needed. Though maybe the Viera will apologize later for biting as hard as he has. But then again he's providing the other with plenty of kisses with a grazing of teeth and tongue between ragged breaths. Surely that more than makes up for it.
Of course his ears will pick up the way that the Exarch says his name. His name. No titles, but a name. Later, it will register fully. But his ears react even if his mind doesn't just yet - twitching and moving about.
But the both of them are at a loss for words and Theo has to keep his own mouth occupied. Having him slip is vastly different than the Exarch. So he can't allow it either. Thus he continues to kiss at the flesh of the shoulder and then all the way up to the neck. Perhaps leaving a few more marks himself. The Exarch might find legs carefully wrapping about him and even Theo attempting to match the movement of hips. ]
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Whichever man he is, past or present, tugs Theo close through a few last, shallow, shuddering thrusts. With a slow, careful exhale, he slips out from him, voice increasing to a soft almost-whine as his oversensitive flesh drags over Theo's. But his arms maintain their tight hold. He isn't ready to let go yes. He's not entirely certain he's ever going to be. ]
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But it would seem that words fail them both in the coming moments. Rather than speaking with any words, it is the movement of bodies tangled up in a dance that is as old as life itself. Just sounds of unsteady breathing and the sensation of heat building until it reaches a breaking point for the both of them. At one moment or another, Theo's hands have found purchase on the flesh of the Exarch's back - likely leaving slightly angry red trails with trimmed nails. Finding relief brings about a euphoric bliss that Theo had long forgotten existed.
It's with that satisfaction that his head falls back against the pillow, not letting go either but body wonderfully spent and pliable. For now. It's a brief time of respite before it will likely start back up again. The immediate need has been dealt with, for now, and that is what matters.
Trying to find his breath ( and maybe voice ) is a struggle since there's evidence of how content he is softly rumbling in his chest; and Theo fully intends to hold the Exarch there for a while yet. ]
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Half his body stings from those nails, the other aches from exertion and bites. But it's good, to ache from something so perfect. To feel pain, and good pain, on his own terms instead of the slow agony of the tower consuming him ilm by ilm.
It takes him a while to slide down from on top of Theo's body to his side. When he does, he sets about stroking fingertips softly over his hip. ]
I imagine you will be wanting your sight back.
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This had easily been one of the better moments that the red mage has spent during this particular time. Though this is a first that he has wanted more; that he wants to come back to this. Well to the Exarch in particular.
Does he want his sight back? Sure, but at the moment it'd only be so he can see a face that doesn't want to be shown to him. ]
I am in no rush for you to don clothing.
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[ He purrs contentedly as Theo's hands stroke at his ears and hair. In a way that seems almost affectionate. There remains more, it seems, that he does not dare to hope for. He still does not dare hope for real affection. But he's more than content to glut himself upon this. ]
I perhaps should have been more careful. [ He says eventually, reaching up to the bruising at Theo's neck, preparing to heal it. ] Apologies. I should not want my carelessness to give you cause to think yourself anything less than precious to me.
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Again, just affectionate. It's not "seems." It just flat out is. Yes, Theo's current condition and state of mind may make him want the other close. Shower him with care and adoration. However some of that stems from Theo's own feelings that have nothing to do with that. ]
Good. After all it seems rather pointless as this could potentially happen again.
[ He feels the fingers brush against his skin. Senses the slight spike in aether and catches the other's wrist. He brings it to his mouth, brushes lips against knuckles. ]
You needn't worry. Not about being careful and not about needing to heal them. Perhaps I might like to wear them for longer yet.
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[ Apparently that's just the phrase he's using to describe everything he wants now. The expressions of want were necessary before, because without them, Theo would never have accepted this. Now it seems indulgent again, unforgivably, discussing what he wants so directly.
The healing spell dies away into a soothing, pleasant, otherwise useless pulse of aether. Not even enough to reduce the swelling of bruised lips. ]
I might have been more artful, had I known you were meaning to wear my work.
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I'm glad that you find it agreeable. [ Word of the day. ] While I may yet have clarity in this moment, I assure you that it won't last. We're at the peak currently so I will not be fully satisfied for another day or two yet.
[ So why would he let the other go? He might be holding the Exarch to his words from earlier. To take care of Theo and see him through this. What does it matter if it is indulgent? Theo's mood is such that he doesn't think of it as a problem. It seems perfectly reasonable to just... Allow themselves this.
He places the hand back at his hip. Then sighs and seems to attempt to nuzzle into that hair and ears. That is... That does imply more than just wanting sexual gratification, huh? ]
You still have plenty of opportunities to rectify that mistake.
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[ It does feel like more, and he finds himself at war with himself over it. He wants it to be more. Desperately. And he wants it to be only a quirk of Theo's condition, just as desperately.
If it is as truly affectionate as it feels, it is more than he ever dated to want. And he has doomed two worlds.
But his hand is stroking over Theo's hip again. A face is burying itself in his hair. ]
Perhaps I shall. T'would be a shame not to leave you something worth the wearing.
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[ After all this? This is not duty. Relief, yes, but not duty bound by any means. Theo could have managed on his own but had accepted the Exarch's aid. Accepted him.
Of course Theo will return to being the Warrior that everyone needs him to be once this is all over. Denying his own needs and that will include these stolen moments as well. But he'll look back and think on them fondly.
Always. ]
Only perhaps? How disappointing.
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(He has, of course, given Theo far more information than he realises. Oh, he may have yet to play his hand. But he has managed to show Theo every card in it. And he has, even before today, made it perhaps more clear than he ever intended to that Theo means everything to him.
It may have slipped his mind that his actions speak for him just as much as his secrets would.)
His mouth parts, but for a long time he says nothing. ]
Perhaps you will have to convince me.
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So he's aware that the Exarch is struggling with words. Granted, the Viera can put two and two together, especially since the Exarch has no idea that Theo knows his true identity. ]
You are thinking far too much. I can almost hear it.
[ Because words often say one thing and then actions another. Theo doesn't necessarily need the words to know that the Exarch cares - that this does have meaning for him as well. So when he finally speaks, Theo's free hand slips down to cup a cheek. ]
Do not think that I will not give it my best over the course of the next few days, my dear tower keeper.
[ Then he thinks to seal that little promise with a kiss. ]
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[ The words come with a soft snort of not-quite laughter. And
And they have kissed already, throughout this. Over and over. And yet it is still achingly beautiful, when Theo's lips touch his. Even a kiss like this, small and quick and almost playful sets his mind reeling, leaving it empty of thoughts.
He can't quite manage the horrible thought that Theo is here only for the sake of necessity, not in the seconds after that kiss. So instead he just answers, whispering words against Theo's lips. ]
I look forward to it. To every second at your side.