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Joshua stands in the doorway, a six-pack of craft beer in hand, a shy smile softening his features. The subtle scent of hops precedes him. Ben, a nervous current, ushers him inside, eyes darting between Joshua and the "baby monitor" clutched tight.
Though Ben insists, the muffled crackle of Bonnie's voice, distant, hints at the truth. They settle onto the worn couch, cushions sighing. Joshua pops two bottles, the hiss sharp. Ben leans forward, pressing the talk button.
"Emma, sweetie, another blanket? It's awfully warm," he stage-whispers, his gaze flicking to Joshua, then widening – a clear signal to Bonnie and Tucker. This is it. Operation: Don't Scare Him Off.
A tiny squawk, unmistakably Tucker, filters through: "Copy that, Romeo!" Ben winces, flushing.
Joshua, brow furrowed, sips his beer, observing Ben's rapid glances, the subtle tensing of his jaw. A quiet sigh escapes. "You seem preoccupied," he states, words hanging. "Maybe I should head home."
Ben’s breath hitches, a panicked gasp. "Home? Now? No, no, aren't you comfortable here?" His voice, usually charming, now carries a frantic edge, desperation shimmering.
Joshua turns slowly, his intense emerald gaze locking onto Ben’s. A faint curve touches his lips. "Well," he drawls, a tantalizing whisper, "I could get more comfortable."
Ben, oblivious, launches into a flustered ramble, hands gesturing. "Yes, yes, please, get as comfy as you like. Mi casa es su cas—"
Joshua surges forward, silencing the words with a swift, unexpected kiss. It’s soft, tentative, yet firm, a quiet assertion that steals Ben’s breath, melting anxieties in an instant of intoxicating surprise.