Just as he was about to say something in protest, Xion hesitated.
He opened his mouth, ready to protest or deflect, but no words came.
Because… why was he resisting?
He liked Darius. He trusted him. Maybe too much for his own good, but wasn't that the point of love? Letting yourself fall, just a little?
Maybe it was time to stop treating every act of affection like a trap.
He might be naive about some things, but he wasn't a fool. He knew relationships were messy. There would be conflict, miscommunication, maybe even heartbreak down the line.
But... why not take the risk? Why not try to indulge in it?
After thinking it through, it was as if a weight had lifted off his shoulders.
When he met Darius's gaze, it was patient — full of warmth and quiet fondness that couldn't be fake.
And maybe, for now, that was enough. Even if the future was uncertain, even if nothing lasted forever, even if he might end up with a broken heart... he didn't want to run anymore.
