Even while the kisses lingered, deep but not pressing or leading, Krem could feel the hesitation, the worry, implicit in the fact that it was only kisses and that Thomas's fingers roamed, gently and exploratory.

"You're getting lost," Krem murmured, not pulling back far enough that his lips didn't bump and brush against Thomas's lips. He lifted his fingers to the back of Thomas's neck, rubbed his thumbs behind his ears. His lips were still tilted up gently.

"Will you feel better if you can't see it? I'll still be just as bruised. Herus, I promise: you won't hurt me."