Axel's voice was soft, almost pleading. "Jay, please don't think like that. I love you."
He hesitated for a second, searching Jayvaughn's eyes. "It's just... I don't want us to publicize our relationship right now. Baby, please, can you do that for me?"
Jayvaughn didn't reply. He simply stared at Axel, his eyes guarded and unreadable.
Axel took a small step closer, his voice gentler. "Baby... please."
Finally, Jayvaughn exhaled. "Fine," he said, reluctantly. He didn't want to argue, not tonight. But despite agreeing, a part of him ached. The thought lingered: What if Axel is ashamed of me?
That seed of doubt began to sprout quietly. Jayvaughn started pulling back without even realizing it. His touches were still there, his presence still constant—but something about his warmth had dulled. Axel noticed it almost immediately.
That night, as they lay in bed, Axel turned to him. "Jay, are you mad at me?"
