Jasper leaned back against the couch, sweat sticking his shirt to his back. His head lolled to the side, eyes half-lidded as he caught his breath.

Naeris was on the floor in front of him, hair a mess, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand like they’d just finished something casual. Which, technically, they had. No strings. Just a good time. A mutually agreed arrangement.

Jasper let out a short laugh, rubbing his face. God, this was supposed to be simple. Just two friends helping each other out. No messy emotions, no drama. They'd sworn on it.

Naeris grabbed a bottle of water from the table, tossed it to him. "We’re good at this," he said with a wink, and Jasper's stomach did something stupid. Like a flip.

He ignored it. Or at least, tried to. Because feelings? Off-limits.

This was just for release. That’s what they agreed on.

So why the hell did Naeris's stupid smile feel like it was burning under his skin?