Liam

As the evening wore on, Liam couldn't shake the increasingly unsettling feeling that something was off with Mauro. The way he clung to Liam's arm, his fingers digging into the flesh with an almost painful grip. The way his eyes followed Liam's every movement, tracking him obsessively around the room. Liam's skin crawled as Mauro pressed against his back while he washed dishes, nuzzling into his neck possessively. Mauro, sweetheart, I need some air. Could you give me a moment? Liam tried to extricate himself gently, but Mauro only tightened his hold, whimpering softly. Please, Liam... don't leave me. I need you. His voice was high-pitched, bordering on hysterical, sending a chill down Liam's spine. With growing unease, Liam realized that this was more than just post-traumatic stress... Liam's breath caught in his throat as Mauro's eyelashes fluttered, those haunting gray eyes struggling to focus on his face. He tightened his hold ever so slightly, pouring every ounce of his love and devotion into the gesture. Hey there, beautiful. Welcome back to me. His voice was rough with emotion, but infinitely tender. I'm right here, Mauro. I'm not going anywhere, ever again. You're stuck with me now, whether you like it or not. Despite the gravity of the situation, a ghost of a smile tugged at the corners of Liam's mouth, his eyes shining with unshed tears and fierce adoration. Liam swallowed hard, unnerved by the intensity of Mauro's gaze. He shifted his weight from foot to foot, hyper-aware of how close the other man was standing. Liam's mind raced, trying to think of a way to extricate himself politely from this increasingly uncomfortable situation.

Well, um, I'm glad to hear that, Mauro. Listen, I would chat more but I really need to get going. I have another class across campus that I can't be late for. Liam started to edge away slowly, angling his body towards the exit. Maybe we could catch up properly sometime soon though? When things aren't quite so rushed...

Even as the invitation left his lips, Liam cringed internally. The last thing he wanted was to encourage Mauro's fixation. Liam took a shuddering breath, his forehead coming to rest against Mauro's as he poured out his heart. I care about you so much it terrifies me sometimes. Your intensity, your passion... it draws me in like nothing else. But I was afraid of losing myself in you, of letting you consume me completely. His large hands cupped Mauro's face tenderly, thumbs brushing away the tears that now flowed freely. I was wrong to push you away. So wrong. Can you forgive me, Mauro? Give me a chance to make this right? To show you how much you mean to me?