Francis rarely knew what to expect from most people, but he was getting Edmund, at least he thought he was. This small portion of his life, the man was easy to read.

He allowed himself to be pulled close and he returned the gesture. His arms weren't big but they were stronger than they appeared. Holding him close made him feel so warm and he loved nuzzling the man. He wanted to rub his back or touch his hair to help soothe him, whatever seeped into his skin and made him so alone in the world. The desire not to change things was stronger, so he held him close and listened to his voice say his name so beautifully like it was a desperate prayer.