Too Close For Comfort

Chapter Eight: Watch Your Back

The waiter brought their meals, plated with perfection, and Nico found himself captivated by how everything looked as much as by the way Sasha was looking at him. They settled into an easy rhythm of eating and talking, Nico relaxing more with each sip of wine and each laugh they shared. At one point, Sasha leaned in, telling Nico in a low voice that he hoped this wouldn't be the only day they'd spend together.

Nico paused, surprised at the warmth in Sasha's tone, and then smiled. "I don't mind spending time with you, but..." He hesitated, "if we're going to keep our sessions, we have to keep things professional. Can we do that?"

Sasha's gaze was unreadable for a moment, and then he chuckled softly. "For you, Dr. Rein, I'll try."

Their laughter drifted out into the evening air, and as dessert came, they continued talking about everything and nothing, finding easy comfort in each other's company. Nico yawned, finally, trying to hide it behind his hand. Sasha noticed and suggested they head home so Nico could get some rest.

Back in the car, Nico leaned against Sasha, exhausted, and felt Sasha's arm slip around his waist, holding him close. He let himself drift, resting against Sasha's shoulder, feeling unexpectedly safe in his presence. Before he knew it, a gentle voice was calling his name, rousing him from a light nap. Nico blinked, realizing they'd arrived at his building.

Sasha told him he'd walk him up, and Nico gratefully accepted as they stepped out of the car, his new suit in hand. Otto followed them into the elevator, standing quietly by as they rode up to Nico's floor. When they arrived at his door, Sasha turned to him, saying, "Here you are, safe and sound."

Nico looked at Sasha, reluctant to say goodbye. "Thank you for everything today," he said softly, his voice filled with gratitude. "You really took my mind off things."

Sasha gave him a lopsided smile. "I'm glad you had a good time," he said, his gaze warm. Then, with a playful warning, he added, "And ease up on the alcohol, alright?"

Nico chuckled. "I'll try," he promised. They stood in a quiet, comfortable moment, and Nico fumbled with his keys, feeling the reluctance growing as he prepared to open the door.

But before he could turn away, he felt a rush of boldness he hadn't expected. He looked back at Sasha, and without thinking, he leaned in and kissed him. Sasha responded immediately, wrapping Nico up in a kiss that was strong and unreserved, pressing him gently but firmly against the wall. Nico's heart hammered in his chest as Sasha's hands cupped his face, holding him close, his thumb brushing Nico's cheek. Nico's hands gripped Sasha's back, pulling him closer, the intensity of the moment consuming them both.

Finally, they broke apart, breathless and just staring at each other, neither needing to speak to understand what lingered between them. Sasha leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to Nico's lips, letting it linger before pulling back, a hint of a smile on his face.

"Goodnight, Nico," Sasha murmured, his voice softer than Nico had ever heard.

"Goodnight, Sasha." Nico stepped inside, closing the door with a quiet sigh as he leaned against it, his heart still racing.

The room felt still as he flipped on the light, glancing around at the empty space. Julian's threats and the looming eviction flickered back into his mind, but Nico shook them away. Today, he told himself, was his to keep, and he wouldn't let anything ruin that. Sasha had given him a gift-something that felt like hope-and he was determined to hold onto it.

He had the urge to reach for the whiskey on the counter but stopped himself, opting for water instead. As he took a few calming sips, he moved into the living room, only to notice the house phone blinking with a red light. A voicemail. His brow furrowed as he picked up the receiver and pressed play, Naomi's familiar voice filled the room.