Embers

Atlas grabs my hips and pulls me close to him. "I have never wanted someone the way I want you."

My heart jumps a bit and I feel tears well in my eyes. In my past, no one ever wanted me for me. It was always just sex and being a drug runner... but it's not that way with Atlas.

He wants me.

"Sean, look at me," Atlas begs, as I've been silent and haven't made any move to agree with him.

"Do you want me in return?"

I make eye contact and see the desperation and need in his eyes, which are just as watery as my own.

"Say yes," he begs again, his voice cracking. "Please."

The words are caught in my throat, but I can't force them out.

"Sean... say yes," he pleads a final time, his voice barely above a whisper. "Say yes to me."

Silence drips around us as I find the courage to open my mouth.