Summary:

Ilya’s still learning what Shane likes and needs, observing him quietly because Shane’s not so forthcoming with what he wants unless he’s certain it’s what he’s supposed to want. But it’s not until Shane reaches back and grabs Ilya’s hip to pull him closer, pressing their bodies together and taking some of Ilya’s weight, that he realises Shane’s been studying Ilya the same way.

“I’m trying to take care of you.”
“Why?” Ilya says, instead of something safer.
Shane twists over his shoulder to frown at him. “Because I want to? Because you’re tired and sad and not feeling well?”
“Oh.” Ilya pulls his bottom lip through his teeth. “But I…”
“I think maybe we both fucked up tonight?” Shane says tentatively.
“No, is not your fault.” Ilya rubs a hand over Shane’s shoulder and then kisses it, wet and soft. “You’re good.”
Shane hums like he’s not convinced. He turns and drapes his arms over Ilya’s shoulders, still pressed close. “After this, will you…”
“Yes,” Ilya says, his mind sharpening attentively, “Tell me what you need.”

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Or: They communicate just a little bit better and let themselves be just a little more vulnerable, both with each other and their people.