[ oh, but he does. he does, and he doesn't miss the flicker of uncertainty in his eyes, which is why he leans forward to kiss his mouth harder, seeking and reassuring, firm and sure. his arm winds around him and keeps him there. where credence lets go, he doesn't.

he won't. ]

I still want you. [ he says, and that admission is difficult for a man like him to make. but he does -- despite the frustration of not having him, the ache of wanting but not being able to have. even now, having him in his arms is an incredible temptation. ] I want you more than anything else. [ he leans in to press his forehead against his. ] Credence, you have no idea what it's like to want so badly and not be able to touch. But you've had a long day -- you don't need to deal with this right now.