"He's not walked out yet," Hartley said quietly, able to hear that much. He indicated the boards of the porch, keeping his voice quiet still, "No creaking." He was good at picking up sounds. Blending them out could be difficult.

Slowly sliding an arm around Bill, he only half pretended that it was for better purchase. Really he simply liked being close to him. Liked feeling him. "First kiss. Thank you for that."

Sincerely.