Hale's lips lingered on Kaelith's far too long, pouring warmth and silent longing into the kiss. But Kaelith didn't respond. His lips remained still, frozen, heavy with doubt.
Sensing the distance, Hale slowly pulled away, eyes clouded with something unreadable. He exhaled, low and tired. "I should go for now… We'll talk in the morning."
He turned slightly, already preparing to rise, when Kaelith's hand reached out and seized his wrist not harshly but firm enough to halt him.
"Just because you mean something to me," Kaelith said quietly, his voice strained, "doesn't mean you're allowed to treat me this way."
Hale turned, startled by the depth of hurt in those golden eyes.
Kaelith's hand didn't let go. "Just because I can't be seen with you in public doesn't mean you can come and go whenever you please." His voice cracked at the edges as though holding back more than just anger.
