"They're idiots," he says sadly, wondering why anyone would buy into such a lie. Magic, probably, and the inability to accept it. If these scars relate to James' disappearance then he worries more for his brother, even if he's impotent in that area of his life, unable to do more than wait and rely on others to help.

Demetri is used to hearing he's attractive, but those compliments pale beside the few honest, unpracticed words that Fabrice utters. He shakes his head in disbelief, cradling Fabrice's neck as he pulls him back into a kiss. His kiss is slow and deep, full of need of a different type that scares even him.

We can be scarred together. The words echo inside of him, his breath catching. Demetri doesn't remember ever wanting someone so much, ever feeling as if he might break should they not want him back. He breaks the kiss for long enough to meet Fabrice's eyes, realising that he hasn't been able to control what the other man sees in them for a while now. It's terrifying and exhilarating, he thinks as he whispers, "bed?"