Elias couldn't move after hearing what Viktor said to him. His back was still against the wall of the twins' bedroom, Viktor's hand resting gently on his waist, the taste of that last kiss still on his lips. His heart was beating so hard he was sure Viktor could feel it through both their shirts.
Viktor had just said it out loud and in front of Clara. In front of everyone who might hear.
'I choose Elias. Always.'
The word kept ringing in his head over and over again. It sounded like a vow. It sounded like a proposal. It sounded like something Elias had secretly wanted for months and never let himself believe he could have.
His face burned. His ears burned. His whole body felt too warm, like his heat might come back just from embarrassment.
Viktor was watching him, waiting, eyes soft but serious.
Elias opened his mouth to speak but nothing came out.
