"Dryin'," he answered. Even if it was vaguely familiar, it still felt really nice to be pampered like this. Almost dizzying, actually. Feeling so much love and care, it was strange for Dal.

And maybe that's part of why he's nervous, too. He's just accustomed to receiving love. If his own parents couldn't love him, how could anyone else? And yet Gabriel's mom, who hasn't even met him, wants to do just that.

Dal reached up to lay his hand over Gabriel's, just taking a moment to bask in his gentle affection. He finally broke out into a smile and ducked his head to let out a small laugh. "I'm still surprised ya told her about me before."

Taking ahold of Gabriel's hand, he gave his boyfriend -- that was such a warm thought! -- a light tug toward the bathroom counter where all the lotions and potions he used on his face and skin sat. "Want me to just show ya and explain 'em today?"