Oliver awoke to find himself pressed up against Daniel’s naked back. He could hear the soft rhythmic breathing, feel the heat from his body. He smiled and pressed his lips to the skin of his shoulder. He managed to slide out of the bed without awakening him and padded back to his own chamber. His bed was cold and empty, but he held the memory of Daniel’s body tight to him and managed to sleep.
Morning found him sitting at the breakfast table toying with a piece of toast and contemplating the coffee pot. Daniel came through the door, hesitated, and then sat opposite him. The housekeeper brought them both plates of kippers and left them.
“How are you this morning?” Oliver asked without looking up from his plate.
“Well. You?”
“Fine.” Oliver’s heart was hurting.
They ate in silence with o
