Jasper reacted by returning the hug, a mixture of surprise and warmth evident on his face. He said, “Hey, no worries. I get it; losing something like that would be a nightmare. Consider it a public service. Losing a notebook filled with musical brilliance is a crime against humanity.” he chuckled, yet the tension hadn’t fully left him, especially as he looked Brex in the eyes.
You know, especially one who makes the music room feel even brighter was what Jasper had been holding back from saying earlier. There was a lot going on as Brex told him he could tell him everything. He wanted to tell it all, about this full on gay panic he was experiencing with Brex. The excitement he had felt about getting to know Brex, spending time with him, even the hug just now, internally he was wrestling with what this was, what was he feeling and his very quickly growing fondness for Brex.
Jasper, feeling a bit tense and not ready to delve into these deeper emotions, especially not at a party, responded to Brex’s concern with a lighthearted deflection. “Ah, you caught me! I’m just grappling with the existential crisis of whether pineapple belongs on pizza or not. It’s tearing me apart, mate.” His inner drama player came out as he spoke. Yet, despite the light tone, a hint of vulnerability lingered in Jasper’s eyes. “But don’t worry, I’ll survive this cheesy dilemma.” Knowing Brex might not fully buy into his deflective humor he added, “On a more serious note, I’m good, really.” More than good even since I met you he thought to himself, which scared him. He fell back onto his deflective humor. “Just pondering life’s profound questions and enjoying the party vibes. Now, tell me, where do you stand on the pineapple pizza debate?”
Jasper’s eyes lit up with genuine excitement as Brex told him about the song. "Absolutely, mate! I’d love to hear what you’ve got so far. And if you think I’d be a good fit to sing it, then count me in. Collaborating on a song sounds like a blast. He was quite excited about this, yet a touch nervous and intimidated to, “What’s the song about?” He said asking the question that came to mind.
When Brex asked him to spend more time together outside of music, Jasper noticed the blush coloring Brex’s cheeks, and something in that vulnerable moment tugged at Jasper’s own hesitations and conflict. A subtle, unspoken understanding passed between them, inspiring a sense of shared vulnerability. It was as if Brex’s sincerity had opened a door, allowing Jasper to consider the possibility of unveiling a bit more of his own feelings. He decided to embrace the moment, allowing himself to open up a bit more. “You know, it’s not just the music that feels right when we’re together,” he said with a sly grin, letting a hint of his feelings peek through the playful words. “I’m in, mate, anytime you’re up for it!”
@bpalmer - Brex