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Harper

I've grown a mouth so sharp and cruel
It's all that I can give to you, my dear

Thorn's closeness soothes something torn and ragged in his chest, and he knows that's why he keeps doing this, keeps showing up even when the names and faces change. When he forces them to change, because he's scared that even having a regular will somehow lead his wayward, deceitful heart down a path of hope and expectations that will never be met. Right now, it's all new. Thorn is new. And the way he calls him baby makes Harper feel like he can shed that outer layer of masculine expectation he'd had put onto him the minute he stepped foot into Caido and found himself entangled with only women. Maybe that expectation had been built up in his head, but the idea that he can be cared for is heady.

"I have plenty, and I'm happy to share," he murmurs, lips finally rising at the corners. Thorn is charming, and while Harper can never be sure if his interest in stories and the setting of the room is genuine, it's easier to believe. But for right now there's not much thinking to be had - not when Thorn's fingers pop the button on his pants, making Harper's breath hitch and reluctantly leaning backward onto his hands to provide a better angle for them both. He watches from above with half-lidded eyes, the dark blue of his own irises concentrated on Thorn's own instead of the courtesan's hands despite how good they feel.

I know you mean well, But I'm not a vessel for your good intent
My teeth will only cut your lips, my dear