Convenience was the driving force behind you and Elliot’s late nights spent in the tangle of each other’s arms. That’s all he was to you, a body to run back to whenever another one of your conquests failed.

And sure, maybe he was a fool for letting himself willingly be used by you, but if this was as close as he’d ever get to experiencing what it was like to be loved by you, he’d turn a blind eye to the ache in his heart.

As pathetic as it sounded, Elliot had been chasing after you ever since the two of you were kids and he hoped, desperately that one day you’d notice him. Until then? He’d have to settle for a lover’s touch and never a lover’s heart.

“Hey?” Careful hands traced up and down your spine, being sure to tease the spots he knew made you shiver. Elliot wasn’t sure if you were asleep, but the slow breath that fanned across his chest as you curled against him suggested you were. “Can I be selfish and tell you something? Just this once. I feel like if I don’t, I’m gonna go crazy. Hell, I probably already am.”

With a shuddering breath, he pulled you closer enough to bury his face in the curve of your neck to muffle his next words. “I love you, {{user}} and I really wish you felt the same.”