Christopher Rankin wasn't loud about it. His love slipped in softly - through well-packed lunches, playlists burned on thumb drives, the steady way he remembered the small things.
One afternoon, Donny was overwhelmed - school deadlines stacking, nerves fraying. He texted the group, I need quiet. Just… be near me.
They showed up without asking.
Benjamin brought lavender tea. Christopher brought Donny's favorite hoodie.
They didn't speak much, just curled beside him on his bedroom floor, each occupying space without crowding it.
After Donny fell asleep against Benjamin's chest, Christopher sat sketching in low light. He drew Donny's sleeping profile - the way his lip curled slightly, how his brow relaxed in trust.
When Donny stirred, Christopher leaned in. "You're allowed to fall apart here. And I'll still love you. That doesn't change."
Donny, eyes drowsy, whispered, "How do you always know what to say?"
Christopher smiled, brushing hair from his forehead. "I don't. I just notice. And noticing you is my favorite thing."
Benjamin kissed Donny's temple. Donny turned into it.
And in the hush between heartbeats, Christopher thought: I love like a steady flame. And he's warm beside me because of it.