Ashley's breath is quick and scared as Ereuvir wrenches his head to one side, but the fear only spurs his temper and pride. As Ereuvir kisses him, softly, Ashley yields a little, spreading his legs a little wider and hooking both of his feet around Ereuvir's calves in half-unconscious appreciation. He likes being handled like this, likes the possessive hold balanced against the soft kiss.

And yet the instant he can speak again, Ashley's temper bubbles over. "How dare you compare me to a burnt out torch."