The look in Arthur's eyes turned stony as his question was ignored.  His finger's stopped their gentle caresses across Malachi's skin, and the doctor contemplated implementing the use of his nails against him.

"You promised me anything," he said.  "Did you not mean it?  Or are you taking back your words?"

Perhaps Malachi would be more agreeable with opium.  Of course kind words and kisses were not enough.  This was, what, Arthurs third time seeing Malachi?  There was still so much he needed to do with him, but in the meantime opium would bridge those gaps.

Arthur dropped Malachi's face, his hands coming instead to rest on the prone man's chest.  His eyes never left his face.

"Is a leash really where you draw your line?  Or is it be the constable's chains that has you worried?  Or, is it something else I'm not getting?"