Marcus

Outside the cleared base, darkness had completely fallen, and only the occasional glimmer of moonlight filtered through the cracks in the walls. Inside, it was surprisingly quiet and homely warm—they had done a wonderful job setting up their temporary shelter. The fatigue from the cleansing ached pleasantly in his bones, but he couldn't bring himself to simply lie down and sleep. Marcus sat on the floor, leaning his back against the wall, watching his brother's every move. He physically needed to feel Zeke close, safe. When he came closer, Marcus couldn't resist and tugged at the hem of his jacket, inviting him to sit next to him.

• Finally, we are alone. he said quietly, looking at Zeke with that same gaze, in which devotion mingled with something much deeper. Marcus smiled faintly and, unable to resist, leaned forward, resting his forehead on his brother's shoulder. It was a fleeting, almost desperate gesture of need for warmth.
• I'm so exhausted, Zeke... But now it seems to me that I could sit like this forever.