[ The thing about Larus is that he never expects anything in return for the things he does. It's been that way for as long as he can remember, but he doesn't shy away from the touch to his chest either. ]
You shouldn't be so hard on yourself. [ His words are soft—and hypocritical of him, in the end. ] In this place, all we can hope for is someone we can trust, and sometimes, that might be a stranger. It doesn't mean you're dirty or the things you like are.
[ Larus' fingers carefully cup the back of Khadgar's neck. ] We were strangers once.
[ Khadgar pulls himself a little closer as he runs his hand in small circles over Larus' chest. It's nice to just hold each other with no deeper intent, at least for the moment. ]
Yes, we were. I'm glad that changed. [ He hopes Larus knows that already, but it can't hurt to say it again. ] I think perhaps some of the people I met won't be strangers forever either. And I know I should be kinder to myself. In a way, I have been--I never would have asked for your help a few months ago. Not from you or anyone else.
[ Almost tenderly, Larus presses his thumb against Khadgar's skin and strokes it along the shape of his spine. He's warm, and the sound of his heart beating is oddly content. ]
I still don't know if this is helping. [ Since they're being so honest with one another. ] But being here – all we can do is try. I think they're trying to draw out the worst parts of ourselves. You can't let them win by believing they're right.
[ Khadgar tilts his head back a little to encourage the stroking. It's soothing in a way he wasn't expecting but is so glad to get to enjoy. ]
This is absolutely helping. I just needed some kind words, and to not feel like everyone might think less of me. [ He sighs softly, looking resigned, and a little embarrassed. ] I've been very busy trying not to let them win by just not being the sort of person who enjoys themselves, ever. I think I like the idea of enjoying myself without shame more. It would certainly be new.
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You shouldn't be so hard on yourself. [ His words are soft—and hypocritical of him, in the end. ] In this place, all we can hope for is someone we can trust, and sometimes, that might be a stranger. It doesn't mean you're dirty or the things you like are.
[ Larus' fingers carefully cup the back of Khadgar's neck. ] We were strangers once.
no subject
Yes, we were. I'm glad that changed. [ He hopes Larus knows that already, but it can't hurt to say it again. ] I think perhaps some of the people I met won't be strangers forever either. And I know I should be kinder to myself. In a way, I have been--I never would have asked for your help a few months ago. Not from you or anyone else.
no subject
I still don't know if this is helping. [ Since they're being so honest with one another. ] But being here – all we can do is try. I think they're trying to draw out the worst parts of ourselves. You can't let them win by believing they're right.
no subject
This is absolutely helping. I just needed some kind words, and to not feel like everyone might think less of me. [ He sighs softly, looking resigned, and a little embarrassed. ] I've been very busy trying not to let them win by just not being the sort of person who enjoys themselves, ever. I think I like the idea of enjoying myself without shame more. It would certainly be new.