Krem felt equally breathless in the wake of the soft confession that had spilled out of his lips. He was quiet a moment, still touching Thomas's face. All he could do was nod.

He had known for ages, but been too scared to say. Too scared Thomas wouldn't feel the same way--or he would, but everything would be different or difficult or ruined. But there the words were, and here they laid, close and naked.

Krem kissed Thomas again. "Really."