Talk To Me

39. Why are you annoying?

"When did reaching the peak of pleasure become this thrilling? It had always been exhilarating, yes, but now it was something else entirely. Could it be all those long-held fantasies I've kept buried since youth? It's not as though I had trouble with intimacy before; quite the opposite. After all, desire is often simply about reaching that physical peak."

"Until recently, I thought I knew all there was to know. But having someone I truly crave? That's another matter altogether. The way we touched, kissed, and how deeply I felt the connection in each moment—it was incomparable. And yet, after every encounter, something remains elusive, just out of reach. The desire, instead of fading, only seems to intensify.

"I had thought myself experienced, but I now realize I must relearn it all from the beginning. This new partner is a mystery, different in form and mind, and I yearn to please him without faltering. It is as though the act has shifted from an expression of pleasure to something more profound—a devotion, a way to satisfy him, to bring him joy beyond my own. Now, satisfying his desires has become my singular purpose."

Todo glanced at Swalha with a mixture of irritation and weariness. "I told you, he's impossible to live with! He drags me in here to discuss these...personal matters, and insists Kind mustn't know. And the level of detail! I feel embarrassed on his behalf since he doesn't seem to care who hears him."

Swalha had to admit, Wale's "open book" approach to life was both amusing and, admittedly, a good strategy. He was fulfilling his promise to her and, somehow, helping Todo ease into the idea of Wale and Kind together. Wale had mentioned that he wanted Todo to remain in their lives, as an ally, not an adversary. And, oddly enough, dating Kind seemed to have drawn out a more vulnerable, honest side of Wale that few had seen before.

"Wale, you can't just keep doing this," Swalha chided, her voice soft but stern. "Surely you know you're wearing Todo's patience thin."

"He did say I could ask about anything regarding Kind's well-being, and our relationship certainly falls under that category."

"That was a month ago!" Todo snapped, looking exasperated. "I've since rescinded that offer. If I need to check on Kind's well-being, I'll do it myself! This isn't about him; it's about you and your nonsense!"

Swalha cast Todo a sympathetic look. "Well, Wale's probably finding it difficult because, unlike you, he's still grappling with his identity. Kind knew his path, but Wale...he's only now discovering his. The transition can be daunting, especially when there's someone they deeply care for."

Todo huffed, feeling more exhausted by the minute. Glancing back at Wale, he warned, "I've already shared more than enough on this matter. I'm saying this now, in front of Swalha, so there's no confusion: this is the last time we'll discuss it. And I swear, if you bring it up again, I'll gladly inform Kind of every nagging inquiry you've made. Let's not forget, you're only harping on about this because Kind has refused you."

Swalha's eyes sparkled with intrigue. So, it seemed Kind and Wale's relationship wasn't quite the unbroken spell she'd thought. Judging by Wale's embarrassed expression, Todo had hit a nerve, and she decided it best to sit back and let the two men settle their quarrel.

Todo added with a smirk, "Don't deny it. The entire household noticed how Kind's posture has improved since he decided to abstain."

"Fine, but it's cruel of him to deny me entirely! How could he allow me a glimpse of paradise, only to snatch it away? I admit I may have...overdone it before, but that's only because we're so good together. Is it really selfish to want to make him happy?"

Todo rolled his eyes. "You are insufferable. He's uncomfortable because you're pestering him to top you. I was the bottom in our relationship, and I'm no stranger to that role. But each connection is unique. Kind has chosen you, yet you cling to the past. Eventually, he'll tire of this nonsense, and I'll be here to comfort him when he does."

Wale's face fell, and Swalha seized the moment, her amusement evident. "Wale, do you have anything else to say? This may be your last chance."

Wale finally muttered, "Thank you, Todo. I respect your patience and honesty. I'll seek answers elsewhere. I apologize if I've been insensitive, especially given that you and Kind have history."

"That's not what I meant, Wale! You always twist my words," Todo sighed, rolling his eyes. "In truth, I enjoy having you both around—and so does everyone else. As for me, I've moved on. I found a rebound, so rest easy. Take care of him, and if you fail, you'll answer to Swalha and me." Todo finally broke into a smile, looking to Swalha, who laughed with relief, glad to see a moment of camaraderie between the two.

"Well then," Swalha said with a smile. "I'm glad we've cleared things up. Hopefully, from here, the three of us can find a way to get along."

"Oh, and speaking of moving forward," Todo added, "Kind suggested you join my company."

Wale's jaw dropped. "He did? Surely I've not offended him so badly that he can't bear to have me around?"

Todo smirked. "That's precisely why he wants you there. Besides, with your ongoing dispute with your uncle, you could use a distraction. My work is exciting, and frankly, your parents were major shareholders. It's only fair you start looking into their many investments."

Wale rubbed his face, looking weary. "I've spent years fighting my relatives and tracking every business they own. I could use a breather."

"Kind could use one too," Todo said with a knowing look. "A vacation, perhaps. The two of you could use a change of scenery." Swalha nodded in agreement.

"Yes," Wale agreed. "Kind's grown wary of the dark ever since...well, everything. He still has nightmares. A new setting would do us both good."