Chapter 21

3rd person pov:

Gemini had always prided himself on being observant. He noticed things others overlooked—the way people spoke, the small tells in their expressions. But when it came to Fourth, it wasn't just observation anymore. It was an awareness that settled deep in his chest, a constant hum that refused to fade.

He wasn't sure when it started, but the more time he spent with Fourth, the more he found himself drawn to him in ways he hadn't expected.

That afternoon, as Gemini stood in the kitchen preparing lunch, he glanced toward the dining table. Fourth was sketching again, his head slightly tilted as he concentrated, the tip of his tongue peeking out between his lips. Gemini couldn't help but smile at the sight.

Then he noticed something else—Fourth was staring at him.

He turned, catching Fourth's gaze. "What's up?"

Fourth's eyes widened, and he quickly looked back at his sketchpad. "Nothing," he mumbled, but the pink tint on his cheeks gave him away.

Gemini felt his chest tighten, a warmth spreading through him. He chuckled softly. "Are you sure? You've been staring at me for the past minute."

"I was not!" Fourth protested, his voice higher than usual, and Gemini couldn't help but laugh.

"If you say so," he replied, turning back to the stove, though his mind was far from the task at hand.

There was something about Fourth's reaction that made Gemini's heart race. It wasn't just the blush or the stammer—it was the realization that maybe, just maybe, Fourth felt the same pull he did.

Later that evening, they sat on the porch, the air cool and filled with the sound of crickets. Fourth leaned against Gemini's shoulder, as he often did now, and Gemini felt his chest tighten again. It was such a simple gesture, yet it carried so much weight.

"Thank you," Fourth said softly, breaking the silence.

Gemini glanced at him, surprised by the sudden words. "For what?"

"For everything," Fourth replied, his voice quiet but steady. "For... making me feel like I matter."

Gemini's heart clenched at the vulnerability in Fourth's voice. Without thinking, he shifted slightly, his arm brushing against Fourth's, his hand coming to rest near his. It wasn't much—just the barest touch—but it felt significant.

"You do matter," Gemini said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper.

Fourth didn't respond, but he didn't pull away either. Instead, he leaned a little closer, his trust in Gemini so clear it made Gemini's chest ache.

In that moment, Gemini felt the full weight of his growing feelings. It wasn't just about protecting Fourth anymore. It wasn't even about the connection they'd built over the past few weeks. It was about the way Fourth made him feel—like his presence meant something, like his life had gained a purpose he hadn't known he was searching for.

He knew he needed to be careful. Fourth was still fragile, still finding his footing. But the more time they spent together, the harder it became for Gemini to hold back the feelings threatening to spill over.

As Fourth closed his eyes and let himself relax against him, Gemini let out a quiet sigh, his hand brushing against Fourth's once more. It was a small touch, a silent promise.

And though Gemini couldn't say the words out loud yet, in his heart, he knew. He didn't just care for Fourth—he was falling for him.