Growth

The shorter pressed his hand to Chase's chest and pushed very gently, making the two halt their kiss, Zuma's back meeting the counter behind them.

"What is it? What's wrong?" The taller asked, one hand on Zuma's white sweater and the other gently stroking his cheek, making the hazel eyed lean into the touch and sigh shakily.

"K-keep the sweater on?" He whispered.

"Huh?"

"Please?" Zuma panicked, a few tears escaping his eyes.

"Hey, hey," Chase cooed softly, "it's okay, I just didn't hear you. Of course you can keep it on. But why?"

"M'not pretty" the shorter whined, looking down. "'M a f-freak 'cause I'm different 'n like wearing certain clothes."

"Bub, look at me please." Chase commanded in a whisper. His plea fell on deaf ears so he crouched down, almost on his knees, so the two could look at each other.

"I don't want you to think about what those people said if you can help it okay, I know it's gonna be hard. But, I think you're perfect." Chase kissed Zuma's knee and gently ran his hands up the sides of his legs until they held the boy's lace covered hips.

"And I intend," a kiss was placed delicately on Zuma's mid-thigh.

"To show you how much I mean that."