[The panic doesn't necessarily subside — lessens maybe, but it doesn't go away. His fear now just moved from one issue to another...he disappointed Rafe. He upset him. The cold hand on his chest tells him that much, and his markings subtly pulse for a moment in shame. He still can't meet Rafe's gaze, though he graduates from staring down at his chest to up more...around his mouth, not quite able to make it further.]
I'm sorry. [It's a hushed apology, like someone could hear them. He only manages to meet Rafe's gaze again when he tries to press forward, against his hand, signaling that he was ready. It's fine. Just give him another chance. Don't be mad.] I've been awaiting this moment and I'm...ruining it. But I'm fine now, I swear it.
cw: body dysmorphia, skin horror, implications of past sexual/physical abuse, past slavery, ptsd
I'm sorry. [It's a hushed apology, like someone could hear them. He only manages to meet Rafe's gaze again when he tries to press forward, against his hand, signaling that he was ready. It's fine. Just give him another chance. Don't be mad.] I've been awaiting this moment and I'm...ruining it. But I'm fine now, I swear it.