I'm Only Human! - Part 2

Chapter 7: A Temporary Lover

The next day, Matthew awoke to the sensation of someone touching him. It was Elder Thorne, accompanied by another person, who Thorne wanted to introduce to Matthew. The person, a large and muscular male anthropomorphic bear, smiled as he slowly reached out and touched Matthew's shoulder. The bear had thick, dark fur that gleamed in the morning light, and his eyes were a warm, honey brown. He wore a simple tunic that strained against his broad chest and muscular arms, each movement showcasing his immense strength. Despite his imposing size, his smile was gentle, putting Matthew somewhat at ease. "Hey, small human," said the bear as he crouched down and ran a massive thumb along Matthew's cheek. "I'm Brutus, and Elder Thorne told me all about you and your life story!" Matthew blinked up at Brutus, momentarily taken aback by the bear's sheer presence and unexpected gentleness. He felt a mix of awe and curiosity, his initial apprehension giving way to a tentative smile. "Nice to meet you, Brutus," he replied, his voice tinged with both nervousness and excitement. Brutus chuckled as he then gestured for Matthew to grab his hand, but Matrthew hesitated, as he was completely naked under the sheets. "Wait, Brutus," he said, "Could I get some clothes on first?" Brutus chuckled heartily, "No need to be shy, little human," he said, as he began removing his tunic. As the fabric slid off his shoulders, it revealed a massive, chiseled torso covered in dark fur, each muscle defined and rippling beneath. His broad chest and powerful arms were adorned with intricate tribal tattoos, each telling a story of strength and heritage. "We don't stand on ceremony here," he added with a wink, standing tall in his natural glory, completely at ease.

Matthew's eyes widened, and his jaw dropped as he stared at Brutus, who was now naked as well, and he put a hand over his mouth. "Oh my god," he said as he looked Brutus up and down. "Y-You're huge, and oh my god, those muscles..." Matthew's heart raced as a mix of emotions surged through him. Awe and admiration for Brutus's formidable physique mingled with a touch of embarrassment at his own vulnerability. He felt a strange blend of intimidation and fascination, the sheer power and confidence exuded by Brutus leaving him both speechless and in awe. Brutus chuckled warmly, sensing Matthew's conflicting emotions. "Don't worry, little human," he said, his voice gentle yet commanding. "Strength comes in many forms, and you have your own kind of power, too." He then gestured with his hand again for Matthew to grab it, and slowly, Matthew did. Brutus smiled as he gently wrapped his massive, beefy hand around Matthew's and held it tight, giving it a loving squeeze. Matthew glanced down at his own slender frame, feeling a flicker of doubt. He had always considered himself physically unimposing, but Brutus's words planted a seed of reassurance within him. Perhaps strength wasn't just about muscles; maybe there was something more profound within him waiting to be discovered. Slowly, Matthew got out of bed, then, as Matthew stood up next to his cot, he looked at Elder Thorne, who was smiling wide. Elder Thorne's smile conveyed a deep sense of approval and pride. He had long believed in the potential of every individual, regardless of their outward appearance, and seeing Matthew take this step was a testament to his inner strength. It was a silent acknowledgment that Matthew had begun his journey of self-discovery, one that would reveal the true essence of his power. "Thank you, Elder Thorne," Matthew said as Brutus's grip on Matthew's hand tightened. "Thank you for everything!"

Elder Thorne's eyes softened with warmth as he nodded in acknowledgment. "It is you who must be thanked, Matthew, for embracing your path," he replied, his voice filled with gentle wisdom. "Your courage to face the unknown is a beacon of hope for us all." Matthew smiled as he nodded, then looked up at Brutus, who towered over him. Brutus then picked Matthew up in his massive arms, thanked Elder Thorne again, and walked out of the room while carrying Matthew. As he walked down the stairs and out the front door, Brutus explained to Matthew why Elder Thorne had introduced them. "Matthew," Brutus began, his voice gentle but steady, "Elder Thorne introduced us because he believes you need not only a guide but also a companion in this village. Someone who can stand by your side, support you, and share in your journey. I hope to be more than just a friend; I want to be your partner, someone you can rely on in every way." Matthew's eyes widened at Brutus's words, and he started to shed a few tears as he slowly ran a thumb along Brutus's cheek. "R-Really?" Matthew asked. "Elder Thorne wants to give me a boyfriend?" Brutus nodded and smiled. Matthew hugged him tightly, and the two stayed in that position for a while. As they hugged, Elder Thorne came out of the cabin with both Brutus's and Matthew's clothes. They had forgotten them in Elder Thorne's bedroom. As Elder Thorne opened his door, he got an eyeful of Brutus's muscular back and massive butt. Elder Thorne chuckled softly, shaking his head with amusement. "It seems in your excitement, you left these behind," he called out, holding the clothes up for them to see. His eyes twinkled with a mix of mirth and affection as he approached the pair. "Thank you, Elder Thorne," Brutus replied as her took the clothes from the elder. Brutus then put Matthew down so they both could get dressed. Once dressed, Matthew and Brutus exchanged a grateful glance before turning back to Elder Thorne. "Now that you're ready," Elder Thorne said with a knowing smile, "there are many in the village eager to meet you, Matthew. Let's not keep them waiting." With a renewed sense of purpose, Matthew grasped Brutus's hand, and together, they walked toward the village square while Elder Thornme retreated back into his house.