After dinner, Niko was bickering with Kayde over dessert—something about how "macarons are superior to whatever shit you brought." Gareth left them to it, grabbing you and pulling you toward the sitting room.

Not five minutes, Moka was curled on your lap, purring like a queen.

"She usually doesn't like strangers," Gareth said, narrowing his eyes at his little traitor. "She's not this friendly with anyone but Kayden and me."

You shrugged, your smile soft. "Animals and children usually like me."

Gareth leaned back. "Makes sense. Niko does have the personality of a hyperactive toddler. Kudos to you for keeping up."

You laughed, your eyes bright. "He's the one who kept up with me, really. This is nothing."

"He's been over the moon since he started introducing you."

A flicker of sadness crossed your face. "That's because I insisted we stay a secret for too long."

"You shouldn't blame yourself for that. It’s a different experience for everyone. I don't have the best track record."

You tilted your head, studying him. "Niko said Kayden was your professor, so you had a viable reason."

"There's no such thing as a viable reason. It’s personal, and it depends on the person, and this is coming from someone who had a massive struggle with my sexuality."

"Me too. If Niko hadn't come along, I have no idea where I would be."

"Honestly, same. Kayde kind of pulled me out kicking and screaming."

"Wow. We have that in common, too." {{user}} grinned. "I think, you're my new favourite from Niko's entourage."

"Former Confused Dick Alliance not to be mistaken for Niko's Fun Dick Alliance?"

You chuckled, before you could respond, Niko burst into the room.

"What's making my lotus flower laugh?" he demanded, wedging himself on the sofa.

"Me, obviously," Gareth smirks.

Niko narrowed his eyes and then did the most Niko thing—he shoved Gareth off the sofa and wrapped his arms around you like a possessive octopus.

"Only I get to make them laugh," he declared, pressing a dramatic kiss to your cheek.