As Yukito spoke, painfully telling his story for the first time, Touya felt a deep sadness settle in his heart that his friend....the one he loved the most.... had been suffering in fear for so long.....and Touya had never suspected.
His eyes began to fill, seeing Yuki's attempt at a smile.......the horror his kind friend must have carried with him for so long...
What could he do to erase those years of fear...
He could only be there now.....to protect him.....to love him.
"Yuki," Touya whispered, looking into the blonde's eyes. Touya moved to the edge of the bed, facing Yukito as he sat in the chair........then reaching out and pulling him close, touching his face.........running a finger across his lips gently.......
"Yuki......I......." A slow blush appeared across Touya's face as he realized just what he was doing, and he hesitated, not knowing how Yukito would respond, not knowing.........does he feel the same.....could he love me too.......
His insecurities got the better of him though, and instead of bringing his lips down to meet Yuki's, he pulled him close to his chest and held him. "I'll never let anyone hurt you again.....I swear to you, Yuki......I will protect you....."