Party
Jasper’s shoulders eased slightly at Brex’s offer to grab some snacks while they chatted. Food always had a way of comforting him, and it seemed like a simple yet thoughtful gesture from Brex. “Yeah, that sounds good,” Jasper replied, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips.
As Brex showed him the small notebook filled with pictures, including those of his mom, Jasper’s heart warmed at the sentiment behind it. “Wow, Brex, this is really special,” he commented, studying the photos with genuine interest. “I’m glad I could secure it before it got lost. And I have to say, it’s nice to see something that means so much to you.” He genuinely appreciated Brex giving him some more insights in his life through this notebook.
When Brex brought up their pizza topping preferences and asked about his own food likes and dislikes, Jasper chuckled softly, appreciating the attempt to steer the conversation toward lighter topics. “Yeah, pineapple on pizza is a hard pass for me,” he admitted with a grin. “As for my tastes, I’m pretty open to trying new things. I enjoy a good variety of cuisines, especially if it involves some hearty comfort food,” Jasper continued, his tone light and casual. People were often surprised to hear Jasper’s favourite food, he was quite a small and petit guy, yet, his metabolism allowed him to basically eat whatever he wanted without gaining any weight, “But I have to admit, I do have a weakness for a well-made burger or a comforting bowl of pasta. Can’t go wrong with those,” he added, a hint of enthusiasm creeping into his voice as he talks about his favorite dishes.
Regarding Brex’s offer to share his song and possibly collaborate on a demo, Jasper felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness. The idea of singing someone else’s song, especially one as personal as Brex’s, was both thrilling and daunting. “I’d be honored to give it a listen,” Jasper replied, his voice filled with enthusiasm. “And who knows, maybe we can work something out together. It’s really cool that you trust me with your music like this.” As Brex stumbled over his words, Jasper couldn’t help but smile at his genuine enthusiasm. The fact that Brex saw potential in him as a singer was both humbling and encouraging. “Thanks, Brex,” Jasper said, his voice laced with genuine appreciation but also a touch of nerves. “Your confidence means a lot to me. I’ll do my best to do justice to your song.” It seemed quite a big deal Brex seemed to trust him with his music, and he hoped he wouldn’t mess it up.
Next day
As Brex mentioned Jasper giving him the “good kind” of butterflies once again, Jasper couldn’t help but feel a rush of warmth in his chest. He had been so nervous about confessing his feelings to Brex, and those feelings now being out in the open was a weight lifted off his shoulders. “I’m glad it goes both ways too, Brex,” Jasper said with a genuine smile, feeling a sense of relief wash over him.
When Brex opened up about trying to be honest and open, Jasper’s heart swelled with affection for him. He admired Brex’s willingness to be vulnerable, recognizing that trust was a crucial foundation for their relationship. “You don’t have to share everything right away, Brex,” Jasper reassured him, his voice soft and understanding. “I appreciate your willingness to share tho, and I’m here for you, no matter what.”
Jasper listened to Brex’s confession about being clingy, and a genuine smile played on his lips. Brex’s honesty only deepened the connection between them. “Brex, you’re not scaring me off,” Jasper said sincerely, looking into Brex’s eyes. “In fact, it’s the opposite. Your honesty and openness about being clingy, about wanting to be close, it means everything to me. I want you to feel completely free to be yourself around me.” He gently ran his fingers through Brex’s hair, a gesture that felt natural and comforting. “I meant what I said before, your touch feels right. It’s something I want, something I welcome. You’re not too much, not by a long shot.” Jasper chuckled softly at Brex’s mention of going into “fully cling mode.” “Bring it on,” he teased, his tone playful. “I’m all for it. And you’re right, if at any point we need to adjust or communicate about our boundaries, we’ll do it together. It’s about us, about building something that feels right for both of us.”
When Brex wrapped his arm around Jasper’s shoulder and expressed his gratitude for their mutual support, Jasper felt a lump form in his throat. He was overwhelmed by Brex’s kindness and sincerity, feeling a deep sense of connection with him. “I’m glad we have each other, Brex,” Jasper said softly, leaning into the comfort of Brex’s embrace.
As Jasper began to share about his autoimmune disease, he could feel the weight of his emotions pressing down on him. Brex’s reaction was one of concern and compassion, and Jasper found himself leaning into Brex’s touch, seeking solace in his presence. “Yeah, Brex, you’re right, even if it’s under control, there is not really a cure.” Jasper replied, his tone reflecting a hint of vulnerability. “It’s something I’ll have to manage for the rest of my life,” Jasper admitted, his voice trembling with emotion, “but knowing that I have you by my side makes it a little easier to bear. Thank you for being here for me, Brex. It means more than you know, even if I don’t want to let it define me or hold me back, it’s feels good to have your support”
With a deep breath, Jasper allowed himself to be vulnerable, to let go of the pain and uncertainty that had weighed heavily on his heart. Tears ran down his face. In that moment, he found strength in Brex’s embrace, a reminder that he wasn’t alone in his journey. He looked Brex in the eyes, realising they were only inches apart. In the heat of the moment, feeling an overwhelming closeness to Brex, he gave in to the impulse. Without giving it much thought, Jasper pressed his lips against Brex’s, the kiss born from a surge of intense feelings that had been building up.
For a fleeting second, everything else faded away. It was just Jasper and Brex, caught in the whirlwind of emotions that had been simmering beneath the surface. However, as quickly as the impulsive kiss happened, a sense of uncertainty and regret crept in. As their lips parted, Jasper’s eyes widened, and a sudden rush of self-doubt took over. He pulled back, a mixture of confusion and regret etched across his face. The weight of his actions settled in, and Jasper’s mind spiraled into overthinking mode. Did he just mess everything up? Was it too soon? Certainly this wasn’t the right moment and circumstances to have a first kiss?
Caught in a whirlwind of conflicting emotions, Jasper took a step back, his eyes searching Brex’s face for any signs of reaction. His mind raced with thoughts and worries, and the impulsive kiss now felt like a bold move that left him questioning everything. “I… I’m sorry,” Jasper stammered, his tone a mix of regret and uncertainty. “I didn’t mean to… I mean, I just thought… I don’t know what I thought. I just…” Jasper trailed off, grappling with the sudden surge of emotions and the fear that he might have jeopardized something precious.
@bpalmer - Brex