Unrequited

14

That night, Pavel made the decision to let Pooh sleep in his bed. The emotional turmoil the boy had endured demanded comfort and safety, and Pavel wanted to provide that. He turned off the light and climbed into bed, turning his back to Pooh in an attempt to give him space while also creating a boundary. As he lay there, he tried to focus on sleep, but he couldn't shake the feeling of Pooh's presence behind him.

After a while, Pavel felt Pooh's gaze on his back. Nervously, he pretended to be asleep, keeping his breathing steady. He heard the soft rustle of the sheets as Pooh shifted closer.

"I love you, Captain," Pooh whispered, his voice trembling with sincerity.

Pavel's heart skipped a beat. He felt Pooh's lips press gently against his cheek, a tender and innocent kiss. Pooh's hand moved slowly, caressing Pavel's arm from behind. The touch was soft, almost reverent.

Pooh continued, placing a series of light kisses on Pavel's bare back, each one filled with the depth of his emotions. Pavel blushed, his skin tingling under Pooh's touch. He felt conflicted, wanting to comfort Pooh but unsure how to handle the intensity of the boy's feelings.

"Please, don't be mad at me," Pooh whispered, his voice barely audible. "I just needed to feel close to you."

Pavel's heart ached with empathy. He wanted to reassure Pooh, to tell him that everything would be okay, but he remained silent, his eyes squeezed shut to maintain the illusion of sleep. He felt Pooh's face snuggle into his back, and the boy's breath became even and steady as he finally drifted into a deep sleep.

Pavel lay there for a long time, his mind racing. He understood that Pooh's actions were driven by a desperate need for love and security. He resolved to handle the situation with care and sensitivity, ensuring that Pooh knew he was valued and safe, without giving him false hopes.

Eventually, Pavel allowed himself to relax, feeling the warmth of Pooh's body against his back. The boy's presence was a reminder of the responsibility he now bore. He had to be a protector, a guide, and a source of strength for Pooh. With a deep sigh, Pavel finally drifted off to sleep, determined to navigate this delicate situation with compassion and understanding.