[ Nate knows that he isn't somehow weak without the ability to read Ian. He knows that the lack of the bond doesn't change the way that he feels about him, it doesn't mean that he abruptly stops caring, or that he doesn't get him. They spent more time hanging out with each other and not touching than they have actually doing so, not counting the Aerie, and it shouldn't change anything.
But the context is different now, and where they both might have struggled on certain subjects they were permitted a sentimental shorthand to bridge the gap. Ian's panic that day in the shower after Nate carved out the thing that was off was genuine, and the likelihood that he might retreat again because it's easier without someone seeing is...an uncharitable thought, but a possibility.
He tries not to think about it overmuch, leaning into the gesture and startling from it only when that same stupid guard opens the door again and clears his throat obnoxiously loud. ]
We were- just...leaving...
[ Nate clarifies with tonal whiplash, reluctantly pulling back to give Benny a withering look. He imagines this is what being caught out under the bleachers is like, except the teacher is a security official who suddenly looks nervous that Nate might snap his neck like a toothpick. He winds one hand in Ian's, pulling him along. ]
no subject
But the context is different now, and where they both might have struggled on certain subjects they were permitted a sentimental shorthand to bridge the gap. Ian's panic that day in the shower after Nate carved out the thing that was off was genuine, and the likelihood that he might retreat again because it's easier without someone seeing is...an uncharitable thought, but a possibility.
He tries not to think about it overmuch, leaning into the gesture and startling from it only when that same stupid guard opens the door again and clears his throat obnoxiously loud. ]
We were- just...leaving...
[ Nate clarifies with tonal whiplash, reluctantly pulling back to give Benny a withering look. He imagines this is what being caught out under the bleachers is like, except the teacher is a security official who suddenly looks nervous that Nate might snap his neck like a toothpick. He winds one hand in Ian's, pulling him along. ]
C'mon.