[He feels something warm and safe coming from his bond with Ignis, and he can feel his cheeks heating up at the shared intensity of emotion. This wasn't what he expected when they met, when they slept together, even when Ignis came over tonight. He didn't expect to wonder if this is what love feels like when it comes later in life. It doesn't burn him passionately. No, it makes him feel safe, held tightly in kindred arms, and he watches Ignis carefully as he speaks.

It aches in all the right ways. He would never dream of keeping someone like Ignis all to himself anyway, and he'd never feel secure enough to be tied down, but to have a sliver...]

I would be honored. [No, that's too formal.] Call me a fool, but I've fallen for you so hard it makes my chest ache.

[He looks into those eyes with all the affection he can muster. This is a difficult confession. He has to speak carefully, so as not to alarm, but sincerely and plainly, so Ignis knows it's not ill-intentioned.]

I know you know I'm hiding something. Someday, when I'm safe, I'll tell you the truth about me. Everything. About why I'm so... the way I am. If you still have room in your heart for me then...