Archive of Our Own ^beta

The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a golden trail across the lake. The air was filled with a prominent scent of pine and algae, and the reeds rustled softly in the cool breeze. Connor sat on the wooden dock, his feet dangling just above the water, as memories raced through his restless mind. The gentle lapping of the waves was his only companion — a reminder of the solitude he had grown accustomed to, yet still longed to escape.

“I knew you’d be here,” said a familiar voice. Slowly, Alec emerged from the woods.

“Oh, hey! What are you doing here?” asked Connor, welcoming his friend with a tired, yet genuine smile.

“Just wanted to come check on you,” began Alec. He paused for a while, choosing his words carefully. “You’ve done a lot for me, Connor. We’ve been through so much together in this game, and you stood by my side when no one else did. I wish to repay your kindness, I really do…” Another pause. “But if you don’t want me around, I can leave.”

There was a faint tint of despair in his voice as he finished.

“You can stay,” Connor said reassuringly.

“T-Thanks.” Alec wasn’t convinced. “B-But I mean it, Connor. I’ll understand if you don’t-”

“Oh, shut it. I do!” Connor’s tone became more serious. He didn’t want Alec to feel unwelcome. Frankly, for him, it was quite the opposite. After they’d settled their differences, Connor began to notice that something about Alec’s company felt… different. It wasn’t like being around anyone else. No, Alec was special, and he wanted the man to stay. “You’re not leaving anywhere.”

“Okay.” Alec was half-surprised. Did Connor actually value his presence as much? The idea sparked an unusual warm feeling in his chest, but he couldn’t figure it out just yet. He needed to keep his focus.

“Sit down, I need to tell you something.” His thoughts were interrupted.

Alec took a seat right next to Connor. His essence radiated warmth, making Alec wish he could get even closer.

“I have a number of reasons to be here, but…” Connor took a deep breath. “In the end, I realised something I hadn’t before. I find comfort in this dock thanks to the moments you and I have shared together here. This place… it reminds me of you, Alec…”

“Really? Connor, you’re making me blush.” Alec’s cheeks turned a bright shade of pink. What was his friend trying to say?

“Well, I mean… of course. I’m just saying…” It was Connor’s time to blush. “Sorry if that sounded awkward, I-I didn’t mean to-”

“It’s okay.” Alec let out a soft chuckle. “I appreciate your words.”

Unable to resist any longer, he carefully leaned against Connor’s shoulder. The waters still needed to be tested before taking a deep plunge. Suddenly, Connor’s hand slid on the top of his, sending a jolt of excitement through Alec’s entire body. The unusual tingling sensation grew stronger in his chest, spawning dozens of butterflies everywhere. It was a feeling he thought he’d long forgotten, and would never experience again.

“Connor,” Alec whispered. It was now or never.

“Hm?”

“I’m not sure if I’ll manage to keep my promise even as I’m sober.”

“Huh? What do you mean?” asked Connor, turning to face Alec.

Pushing aside any rational thought, Alec leaned forward and pressed his lips tightly against Connor’s. It was a quick, desperate kiss that spoke more on Alec’s behalf than any words could. It expressed his gratitude, admiration, and, most importantly, his loyalty to the man who was pure-hearted enough to give him another chance.

Alec risked a look in Connor’s eyes. The latter expressed a tremendous state of shock, but there was no hint of anger or resentment behind it.

“I’m sorry.” Alec looked away, ashamed. How could he be so foolish?

“Hey, don’t be. Come,” Connor said softly, pulling him closer. “We’ll worry about that tomorrow, right now… let’s enjoy the sunset!”

Sending its final ray of light towards the pair, the sun quietly sneaked away into the shadows. Something clicked inside Alec, and a shy smile lifted the corners of his mouth. For the first time in a while, he felt that maybe, just maybe, there was a tiny flame of hope waiting for him amidst the sorrows.

The day had come to an end, but tomorrow would bring a new sunrise.