Chapter 64

“Does it hurt?” Liam asked. “To speak, I mean? Is there pain anywhere?”

“A little.”

“It’ll get better. Vaughn wanted you out through the worst of it, he said.” Liam took Frank’s hand again. “I wish I never had to let go.”

“I may never let you. Except…to make love.” Frank yawned again. “I don’t…want to sleep.”

“You need to.”

“Can you sleep…be-side me?”

Liam let go of Frank’s hand. “Vaughn said yes. I asked.”

“No clothes.”

“Frank…”

“I’ve w-waited so long.”

Liam let out a breath and started to undress.

“Stand where I can see you,” Frank requested. “And put my glasses on me.”

Liam smiled. Frank could see that. It was just a bit blurry.

“I can’t douse my entire body with the cleanser. We’ll have to keep the clean sheet between us—a very temporary safety measure.” Liam gently placed Frank’s glasses onto his face.

“One sheet is…better than a…dozen blankets, but still…a…frustration.” Frank watched as Liam stripped down to socks and undershorts.