Episode 61: Defined Roles

He thanks me.

Rare.

Genuine.

I reward that.

Of course I do.

He fits easily against me.

Always has.

“…You’re thinking again,” I murmur.

“…I always am.”

I tilt his chin slightly.

Just enough.

“…Then stop.”

He stills.

Immediately.

Good.

“…You don’t need to manage everything,” I say quietly.

“…Not here.”

“…I know.”

“…Do you?”

“…Yes.”

I study him.

He means it.

Good.

I adjust his mask slightly.

A familiar motion.

“…You’re allowed to rely on me,” I add.

“…I already do.”

There’s no hesitation.

No embarrassment.

Just truth.

I hum softly.

Satisfied.

“…Good.”

Because this—

This balance.

This dynamic.

Isn’t accidental.

It’s chosen.

Refined.

Maintained.

And I have no intention of letting it change.