“It’s okay ‘cause you’re here.” There’s a shyness to the words, to the way his eyes flick down then back again. He trusts Gabriel. Dal knows if he feels panic, Gabriel will be right there to help him out of the bathtub. Everything will be alright, even if he’s afraid, at least he knows he’s safe.

Dal’s eyes fall closed, a quiet sigh slipping from his lips. This is the closest thing he can remember to anyone laying hands on him with genuine care. The scrubber feels nice, too, every swipe of it seeming to chip away at the filthy feeling Dal feels clinging to his skin. Each gentle stroke made all the sweat and semen and memories of rough handling fade.

He opens his eyes when Gabriel pauses, watching him take his glasses off, eyes moving over his features. He doesn’t look very different without them and he wonders how bad Gabriel’s vision might be since he wore them all the time. But his wonderings slide to the back of his mind at the next question. An eager nod and a little smile are the initial answers.

“Please.”

Then something in Dal’s eyes shifts and curiosity comes over his face. His fingers unlace behind Gabriel’s neck so he can trace the man’s features; his cheek, his jaw, the curve of his lips. Dal licks his own and exhales a quiet sigh. He knows it’s not the best time because his mind isn’t clear but…

“Can I kiss you?”