3.22 Hades

Bastian felt his heartbeat speed up at that confession and asked, "Why?"

Cass met his eyes, but he couldn't exactly explain how he feels. The only way he'd feel better is if he speaks to the main consciousness.

He's sure Hades has enough strength to come forth for a few minutes, and Cass doesn't want to keep being with him if, in the end, they won't be together.

He feels nervous about talking to him, though, and asked, "Can you come forth?"

Bastian felt confused until his eyes closed and opened again. Cass felt his heartbeat quicken.

It finally hit Cass that he was sitting naked on Hades. Before this, they hadn't even touched, let alone been so close. His face reddened, and he looked down.

Hades tilted his head and reached out to caress his cheek. "Are you alright?"

Cass swallowed, forced himself to look up, and met Hades' eyes. They were cold as usual, but this time, Cass didn't feel cold. He asked, "Do you love me?"

Hades' eyes thawed, and he answered, "I do."