He was so caught up in the moment he tried to follow Misha’s mouth when Misha moved back eventually, but then stopped and froze, mortified by his reaction. Misha didn’t let go of him, though, didn’t pull back much, just shifted so he was straddling Riley. Maybe the position should’ve made Riley bristle, but he didn’t feel trapped. Unsettled, maybe. Definitely. This was too close, too intimate, and at the same time not nearly enough. Riley’s skin felt cold despite the heat, the only warmth coming from the body on top of his. He didn’t know what to do with his hands. He didn’t know where to look until Misha’s gaze snagged his and didn’t let go.

“I didn’t play you,” Misha told him firmly, his voice low and more than a little husky, his stare so intense it felt like a touch. “I fucked up, but I didn’t play you.” His jaw clenched briefly before he managed to relax enough to add, “Also, if you ever put yourself down again like that, I’ll set your fucking boots on fire, swear to God.”

He adjusted his position when Riley twitched involuntarily, but he didn’t budge, kept Riley securely under him, between his legs. Offering Riley a clear shot at his groin or belly, deliberately. It was considerate of

him, though really not necessary. Lord knew Riley had no defenses when it came to Misha, but he did have McClane now. If he really wanted Misha off him, all it’d take was a thought and a push.

Tactical considerations aside, Riley did appreciate the view even though he’d never seen Misha this rumpled before, or this shaken. That suit was a goner and it was oddly satisfying to know Riley was at least partly responsible for it. Even more satisfying to see the naked vulnerability in Misha’s eyes, all those formidable defenses down for a change. It reinforced the dawning realization that Riley wasn’t as alone in this clusterfuck of emotions as he’d thought, wasn’t the only one in over his head. It was a slow, beautiful epiphany that went a long way in easing some of the hurt Riley had carried for so long.

Misha cleared his throat. “I’ve thought about this. About what I’d say to you when I found you. I don’t know if it’ll be enough, but… will you listen? Please?”

Riley breathed out shakily, thoroughly off-balance. Whatever Misha was going to say, he was pretty sure he didn’t want to hear it. Unfortunately, he was equally sure Misha was going to hit him with it anyway. He had that look.

Misha took his silence for acquiescence and nodded once, jerkily. “All right,” he muttered, and then, “Thank you.”

“Just spit it out,” Riley grumbled.