Shine & Shade

Chase nods. We eye each other warily, but there's a new sense of unity between us as well. As if . . . as if we might be in this together. At least, I hope that's how he's feeling. 

Swallowing my self-loathing, I force myself to speak. "I don't understand why you care, but it means a lot to me . . ." I surprise myself by meaning that part.

Chase nods again.

When he doesn't speak, I almost give up. Almost pull away. Then he exhales in a rush and his eyes tip to catch at my mouth.