"I love you," Marcus breathes, the words easier and easier for him to say with every passing moment he spends with Dan. Not so terribly long ago, they had been nearly impossible, but Darrow has changed him. Helped him heal and helped him learn.

He reaches around, fumbling for the button of Dan's jeans. They both know this isn't going to be something they can take their time with, but it has a different purpose and it's one Marcus is more than happy to fulfill. He wants Dan to feel good and brave and whole.

Slowly, he eases Dan's jeans down, careful not to pull them too far and risk him getting too cold.