That was the wrong thing to say. Elijah stared at him. He stepped closer and took his hand in both of his.

"Then let me be close. I won't falter", if you don't ," and I will stay close as your friend which is all I ever wanted",when I didn't know I could even consider there being another option," and I know I'm not perfect in my Bible reading but... it isn't a sin to just love another man. As long as I am close to you. That is all I could ever ask."

Was he being too bold? Asking for too much? Most certainly. But he could see it in the other's eyes. And just standing here and holding the other man's hand. It brought so much joy to him, he could stand there staring into his eyes forever. What he did in the privacy of his own home later was a different story, but that wouldn't ruin his relationship with Gabriel or God. And he could be happy for now.