Chapter Text
“Let’s take it all the way. Retire. We’ll find something to do together,” Steve says.
The words sound silly once they leave his mouth. They’ve already done something together. The restaurant wasn’t exactly a disaster, but it’s still a sore subject. Sometimes mutual endings aren’t without pain. Danny stopped cooking for months after they sold to Kamekona.
Steve gives Danny a sideways smile and a nose wrinkle. He sees the wheels turning as Danny considers the idea. Steve knows this because his partner doesn’t joke or make a snide remark. He’s quiet for a few seconds, and his eyes flash with curiosity and then something else.
“Retire…together? You and me?” Danny’s face is bright with possibilities.
Steve realizes where Danny is going with this. Steve can’t resist kidding him because this has suddenly gotten too serious. He hadn’t meant to discuss anything potentially life altering. Which sounds ridiculous in his mind now because retiring…or whatever they’re talking about is definitely gonna change their lives.
“Yes, let’s get … retired,” Steve says. He wiggles his eyebrows and gets down on one knee.
Shaking his head, Danny chuckles, “Babe that’s the lamest…proposal…and uh…a bit outta the blue…but…you’re not wrong…I mean…look at us…”
Danny is beaming beside him, and Steve feels like he’s going to burst. Instead, he plays it off and says, “They don’t call me Smooth Dog for nothing.”
This earns him the patented, trademarked Danny Williams eye roll.
“Why do I love you, huh? I mean, you’re the king of mixed signals, Steven. You leave for months after I’m kidnapped and shot. Then you’re back, and we’re living together. I have a panic attack at the movies, and – just like that - we’re an item.”
Danny pulls Steve to his feet and backs away, just out of reach. He’s eyeing Steve with amusement.
“You love me,” Steve straightens his posture, makes himself a bigger target, “because I’m charming and handsome.”
“Come here, you big idiot. I wanna kiss you before I slug you.”
Steve tilts his head and gives Danny one of those smiles he knows goes on forever. They’re his secret weapon.
“I love you, Danny Williams.”
“I love you, Steven McGarrett.”
They reach for one another at the same time, fingers intertwining, linking their lives. Then Steve leans in for a kiss. Just intending to give a quick peck, but Danny likes to linger. Steve realizes he’s about to learn many more things about his partner.
“Hey you,” Danny says. He nudges Steve with his nose. “Don’t go overthinking this. That’s my job.”
“Okay, Danno,” Steve answers and looks away.
“You’re so cute when you’re uncertain,” Danny sighs, “You’ve been patient with me.”
Danny lifts Steve’s chin so their eyes lock.
“I appreciate it. Your patience. I’m a guy. I get it.”
Steve shrugs. “I don’t want to rush you.”
“Such a gentleman.”
“Did I ever tell you you’re cute when you’re nervous?”
“Well, nervous is something I don’t want to be when we – you know – “ Danny makes a hand motion.
A snort is not what Steve meant to come out of his mouth, but he goes with it. Then, he apologizes.
“I’m so sorry, Danny.”
“No, it’s okay.” Danny laughs, “Helps break the ice.”
Steve gathers Danny in his arms and just holds him. He whispers, “I’ve got you, and I’ll never let you go.”
Face smooshed against Steve, Danny replies, “Now that’s a better proposal.”