oh what tangled webs we weave

Tyrian's expression was serious, perhaps a little too much so, after Lachlan finished speaking. It was clear he was studying the small man and giving something a great deal of thought. The expression was fleeting and replaced quickly with a small smile as he considered his smaller, nervous counterpart. This wasn't the time for big thoughts; he couldn't have lingered in 'what if' land if he wanted. No, with Lachlan's paw clasped firmly in his, Tyrian was far too rooted in the present and the many novel possibilities this little red masked man presented.

Without pausing to think about it Tyrian leaned in to give Lachlan a quick kiss to test the waters. Saying the words felt like a waste of time when he could simply show the nervous boy that yes, he would kiss him. Maybe it was Lachlan's nerves emboldening him or the drink making him brazen, but Tyrian wasn't feeling particularly shy. He wanted this so he was going to take whatever Lachlan gave him. Lachlan's nerves were endearing in a way and he wondered if he'd come across the same way earlier in the night.

He knew immediately that tiny little kiss wasn't enough - at least for him. But he'd told himself he was going to give Lachlan options as he had been given, so even though he wanted to lean in for another, instead Tyrian leaned back just far enough to meet Lachlan's gaze. There was a question in his eyes as he studied him. Wordlessly Tyrian rolled over onto his opposing hip and lifted his foreleg closest to Lachlan, creating a pocket under his arm and chest just big enough for a small, red marked wolf to fit.