"That is mutual," Nathaniel says, because it is important to say these things. To remind Anders that Nathaniel is happy as well, that Nathaniel needs him. Anders is as much a Nathaniel-whisperer as the reverse. He kneels down on the pillow and runs his hands up and down Anders' thighs before opening his trousers and pulling out his cock. He caresses the length with his fingertips first, gentle and precise, knowing exactly what feels best to the body he knows so well, has spent nearly a year exploring. He lets Anders settle and relax, allows time for him to become aroused.

"Touching and holding you, it grounds me. It makes me feel loved. Maybe you don't always see how much I need you because whenever you're with me, I'm calm. I have everything I need. I can't...you've never let me feel anything but loved. You never make a secret of how you feel. You can't help but show it. And that I have the honor to comfort you, that is how I give it back."