Chapter 337

Just moments ago, Aito had been annoyed by what Ryu wanted them to do but now, that irritation dissolved completely. It melted away beneath the sight of the man he loved falling apart right in front of him.

Aito hadn't realised that Ryu had been carrying this much fear in him. This much guilt and self-loathing. His heart clenched painfully. Without hesitation, he scooted closer until their knees brushed.

"Ryu..." he whispered, his voice impossibly gentle. He lifted both hands and carefully cupped Ryu's face.

Ryu instinctively leaned into the warmth of his palms, closing his eyes and taking in a deep breath for Aito's closeness seemed to calm him down. He snaked his arms around Aito's waist and brought them closer. The erratic beating of his heart slowed and the trembling of his body eased.

Aito's thumbs brushed over his cheeks, cat