With Nee’s agreement came two varying sensations that both washed over Basil at the same time: relief, and then, just as quickly, nervousness. He nodded, following along with Eldritch’s assessment and outlines. His conclusions made sense. They should each try being the one to, er, initiate? Basil continued nodding and then paused.

“Erm, I don’t know if there’s a difference?” he said. “I think it’s just the person who starts. Do girls kiss differently than boys?” Drat! Did he have to pretend to kiss like a girl?! No. That was silly. It was universal! At least… that’s what Atticus had said once. Something about love being the universal language? It really couldn’t be this complicated, especially if his brother pretended to know anything about it... “I-I guess I can start! But how will we know if we do it wrong?” The color was returning to his face and as the moment drew closer, Basil couldn’t help but feel warm again. His fingertips felt like ice by comparison. He hoped he wouldn’t need to use them.

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