Of all things, Neil has never offered such an act. One may call it abstinence, celibacy, lack of interest, or just plain unnatural-- He has never thought to give affection to another willingly. Love is messy. So, too, are its actions.

For the moment, however, as he kisses Alex and the other reciprocates, Neil thinks he might have been mistaken. At least with this act. At least with this man. It's as kind as anyone ever wants it to be. It's just too bad. Just really too bad that he's understanding it now.

He breathes in, taking in scent and sensations, before breaking. Before looking at Alex with an air of somberness.