Noel reached for the bathroom door, his fingers brushing the cool metal handle—only for a wave of warmth to suddenly press against his back.
The faint hiss of the shower waiting beyond the door, steam still clinging to the air, made the sudden weight all the sharper.
Strong arms slid around his waist, holding him still, and a familiar weight settled on his shoulder. Luca's chin, lazy yet heavy with intention.
Noel froze, his breath catching in his throat. The air between them seemed to shrink, charged with a quiet electricity.
"You move fast," Noel muttered, though his voice came out quieter, softer than he intended.
Luca's breath ghosted against his ear, low and deliberate. "I hate waiting." His lips curved against the shell of Noel's ear as he whispered, "Let me join you."
The words sent a palpable ripple through Noel, stiffening every muscle. "You're insane," he managed, trying to pry Luca's hands from his waist.
