"You know… you're my salvation. Somehow my life depends on you."
Ivan's voice was low, raw, breaking as if the words had been caged inside him for years. He didn't move away. His head leaned closer, his arms wrapped around Axel's body, pressing into his neck, still inhaling his scent as though it was the only thing keeping him alive, yet the very same thing that was tearing him apart. His arms tightened around him, his breath shaky against his skin.
"If you let me in," Ivan whispered, "I will never need to worry about becoming weak, losing my strength, my senses... I won't worry about fading away. But don't get me wrong… that's not the only reason I want you desperately." His voice cracked as his lips brushed Axel's skin. "I love you."
