Three words. That's all it takes for Marcus to feel as if Dan has pulled open something inside of him, something vulnerable that he's kept well hidden for a very long time. For his entire life, no one has ever really taken care of him, certainly not his parents, certainly not the Church, and to have it offered so casually now nearly stops his breath.

It feels like too much to say, especially on a first date, so rather than replying verbally, Marcus just sinks onto the couch with Dan. He braces one hand on the arm of the couch, but then rests his weight against Dan, along his side, half on top of him.

This is different than the nights they'd spent in his bed. This has intention and he grins a little, a shy expression, before he presses in for another kiss.