Chapter 28: The Morning After - A Delicate Hold
The first rays of dawn crept through the curtains, painting stripes of soft light across the room. Shin was the first to stir, a smile already gracing his lips. He turned his head, his gaze immediately finding Xander, still lost in sleep beside him. A wave of pure, unadulterated joy washed over him, a feeling so intense it almost made him lightheaded. He reached out, his hand gently brushing a stray lock of hair from Xander's forehead, a silent caress.
He slowly, carefully, shifted closer, wrapping his arms around Xander, pulling him into a gentle embrace. He held him close, savoring the warmth, the feel of Xander's body against his. He still couldn't quite believe it, the reality of Xander sleeping beside him, his head resting on his chest. It felt like a dream, a beautiful, impossible dream come true.
A deep, contented sigh escaped Shin's lips. He tightened his hold, a silent promise forming in his heart. I'm going to keep you right here, in my arms. The words echoed in his mind, a mantra of his deepest desire. And even if it's just for a week… just for this week… I will make sure you are always mine, no matter the cost. The weight of that unspoken commitment settled upon him, a mixture of elation and a familiar, possessive intensity. I will not let you go. The thought was a fierce, unwavering resolve.
He continued to gaze at Xander, his eyes filled with an adoration that was both tender and intense. He studied the curve of his eyelashes, the gentle rise and fall of his chest, the peaceful expression on his face. Every detail was etched into his memory, a treasure he would forever hold dear. He felt an overwhelming sense of protectiveness, a fierce determination to keep Xander safe and happy, within the confines of his own world.
After several minutes, Xander stirred, his eyes fluttering open. He blinked, adjusting to the morning light, and his gaze met Shin's. A blush crept up Xander’s neck as he realized the intimate position they were in, the closeness of their bodies.
"Why are you staring at me?" Xander asked, his voice a little husky with sleep, a shy smile playing on his lips.
Shin's smile widened, genuine and heartfelt. "Because you're beautiful," he murmured, his voice soft with emotion. "I love you." The words were a simple truth, spoken from the depths of his heart, a declaration that felt both profound and fragile.
Xander's blush deepened, a warm flush spreading across his cheeks. He shifted slightly, a hint of awkwardness in his movements. "You know it's just for a few weeks," he reminded Shin, his voice a gentle caution. "I don't… I don't know if I like you like that."
Shin's expression shifted subtly, the initial joy giving way to a flicker of something akin to worry, quickly masked by a determined resolve. "You will," he said, his voice firm, his fingers gently playing with a lock of Xander's hair. "I'll make you fall for me. I'll show you." The confidence in his tone was absolute, unwavering. I will make you mine…completely. He leaned in, his lips brushing against Xander's, a tender, persuasive kiss that held a promise and a silent, unspoken determination. "I love you, Xander." The words were a whisper, a plea, a gentle but insistent claim.
