Thank you.

（ the permission earns the soft press of a kiss down against the crown of his hair before he readjusts, folding the kid into his arms. holding him just lightly enough that it won't feel like an impossible trap. ）

Things are stupid here, and there's a possibility that some unpredictable shit will happen down the line that I can't control. I can't make promises about that.

（ he continues the stroke of the boy's hair as he speaks, a grounding and mindful touch. his fingers card through the strands, gently working out tangles where he finds them. ）

But as long as I'm — normal, myself, all that shit — you have my word that I'll never use your vulnerabilities against you. Not as punishment, not as retaliation if you're a little jackass to me for whatever reason, not to just be fucking cruel. I would never do that to you. Everything you give me, I'll guard. I said it and I meant it. If there's ever a day you don't feel safe with me, I've failed at being the man I want to be.

（ there. tender sentiment given, and now — ）

Breathe. Don't speak, just let me hold you. Tell me when you're good, but take your time.