light over shadows

Chapter 1: breaking the kiss

Virgil lay nestled against Janus's broad chest, the rhythmic sound of his soft snores creating a soothing soundtrack that filled the tranquil room. The gentle rise and fall of Janus's chest provided a comforting rhythm, like a steady heartbeat, wrapping both of them in a blanket of warmth and security. The early morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a golden hue that danced across their tangled sheets, further enhancing the serene atmosphere. Janus's mind drifted as he contemplated the moment, torn between the desire to wake Virgil and share the morning or to quietly escape, leaving the haven they had created together. As he shifted slightly, attempting to extricate himself without disturbing the peaceful slumber of the man beside him, Virgil instinctively snuggled closer, burying his face deeper into Janus's chest. This unexpected reaction elicited a soft, amused chuckle from Janus, who couldn't help but feel warmth spread through his chest at the sight. Leaning in, he pressed his lips against the top of Virgil's head, inhaling the comforting scent of him—a mix of soap, warm skin, and something distinctly Virgil that made Janus smile. In a hushed, tender voice that barely rose above a whisper, he said, "I might just be in love with you." His breath, warm and light against Virgil's ear, hung in the stillness of the room, filled with sincerity and affection. Virgil stirred slightly, his eyes fluttering open just enough to reveal a glimpse of his deep, expressive gaze. He let out a playful huff, brushing the sleep from his voice as he replied, "Love is overrated." A teasing smile played on his lips, even as his heart fluttered at Janus's words. Janus chuckled softly and pressed a gentle kiss onto the top of Virgil's head, feeling a rush of warmth at the intimacy of the moment. "Perhaps," he replied, his voice imbued with a mix of playfulness and earnestness, "but I can't deny that I still feel it." Virgil glanced up at him, his eyes shimmering with a myriad of emotions—vulnerability, affection, and a touch of mischief. He leaned in, their lips meeting in a tender kiss that lingered, an unspoken promise of love and connection. As they pulled away, the world outside seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them suspended in their peaceful bubble. After a moment, Virgil reluctantly untangled himself from the warmth of the sheets and Janus's embrace, the lingering heat of their closeness still palpable against his skin. As he stood beside the bed, the morning chill wrapped around him, contrasting sharply with the warmth of their shared intimacy and the joyful arc of his heart. With one last lingering glance, he prepared to face the day, carrying the memory of their embrace with him like a cherished treasure.

As Virgil meticulously arranged his collection of books within the confines of his locker, a sudden warmth enveloped him. He felt a pair of arms gracefully wrap around his waist from behind, and the sensation sent a wave of comfort coursing through him. It was a familiar embrace, one that brought with it an overwhelming sense of belonging and tranquility that he had yearned for. Letting out a soft, contented sigh, Virgil leaned back into the solid warmth of his boyfriend's chest, a safe harbor amidst the chaos of school life. Janus, with his signature playful yet tender nature, nestled his face against Virgil's neck. The gentle brush of his breath against Virgil's skin ignited a cascade of shivers that danced across his spine, amplifying the intimate connection they shared. He could feel Janus's warm smile against his skin as he murmured softly, "You're so warm. Have you thought about what I mentioned this morning?" Virgil's heart raced as he nodded, but a storm of conflicting emotions brewed within him. The truth was, he had never been in a situation where someone had lingered long enough for him to truly understand his feelings. "No one has ever stuck around long enough for me to figure out my feelings, so I'm not sure if I feel the same way," he admitted, his voice tinged with vulnerability. Janus tightened his embrace slightly, the affection radiating from him palpable and genuine. "Then I'll stay for as long as it takes for you to know," he vowed, his words deep and earnest, laden with unwavering commitment that sent warmth pooling in Virgil's chest. A mix of fondness and uncertainty bubbled within him, prompting Virgil to chuckle softly. He turned to face Janus, the uncertainty giving way to a fleeting moment of clarity, and pressed a gentle peck on his boyfriend's cheek. With a lingering gaze that held both promise and apprehension, he then reluctantly turned to head to class. As he walked away, his mind swirled in a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions, each step echoing the depth of what had just transpired between them.

Just as he adjusted the volume, the classroom door swung open, and in strode a striking figure that seemed to instantly command the attention of every person present. With a presence that was both striking and magnetic, the newcomer possessed a mane of luscious, voluminous hair, cascading in fiery red waves. This seemed to catch the light in a way that turned even the most mundane classroom setting into something akin to a theater spotlight. Mr. Meyer, the teacher, rose from behind his desk, showcasing his tall, athletic frame, as he stretched and shook off the lethargy of his previous lesson. With a warm, welcoming smile, he introduced the new student to the class with the kind of enthusiasm reserved for rare gems. "Everyone, this is Roman Princeton," he said, projecting his voice across the room. Virgil's curiosity piqued, and he turned his gaze toward Roman. The boy had delicate, almost ethereal features—his skin pale as porcelain, seemingly untouched by blemish. His small, gray eyes, lively and expressive, sparkled with a hint of mischief and an abundance of untold stories, as if each glance held secrets waiting to be unveiled. The thin red strands of his hair framed his face smoothly, accentuating his slender build and giving him an appearance that was both fragile and intriguing. With a soft wave of his hand, Roman greeted the class, a faint, slightly shy smile gracing his lips that added warmth to his finely sculpted face. Then, with an air of understated grace, he settled into the empty seat beside a boy named Patton Sinclair. The moment he did, an enchanting aura seemed to envelop him, filling the air with an almost palpable mixture of curiosity and admiration. There was something electric about his presence, a lingering charm that cast a spell over the room, leaving Virgil entranced and eagerly curious about the new figure whose essence managed to pique his interest in the middle of mundane school life.