Even knowing that Gabriel was being completely earnest with him, it seemed too good to be true. Could he really have a life off the streets? After eight long years, could he really have a life where he didn’t have to let strangers fuck him night after night just to put food in his belly and keep a roof over his head? Was it possible?

It felt possible. More than possible. With Gabriel pledging the rest of his life to Dal, it felt real. But could Dal, fiercely independent, willing to do what it took just to survive Dal simply sit back and let someone else pay his way?

Oh, he wanted this so badly! Dal squeezed Gabriel’s hands and blinked at the tears welling up in his eyes. It was all so overwhelming. It took a moment for him to finally nod. He nodded once, twice, again.

“Okay. I’ll stay.”