[ Rafa's eyes close when he kisses him. He leans into it, and then when Vex hugs him, he melts into it. His arms go around him, his cheek presses against his chest, and he listens to the beat of a heart whose rhythm he still knows, could still recite. The last few months seem so much less important now. That they'd spent any time apart seems ridiculous, now that he knows there's a chance it might be permanent. ]

I am sorry I did that. I thought I had to. I thought that it was best.

[ Like when he left Hunter. Maybe this is a lesson he'll never learn, no matter how long his life lasts. ]

I missed you all the time. Every day.