Carrick's gaze did not waver, nor did his ancient, inexpressive face change as Hermes spoke, but he laid his cool, smooth hand atop Hermes own and held it with gentle pressure, then added his other hand, holding the warm, living flesh with both his own.
Finally, not knowing what to say to the heartbreakingly honest testimony, he leaned forwards and kissed the Hermes with as much tenderness as he knew how. He lay down next to his slave and gathered the slender, naked form into his arms, holding him close.
"I forget all my slave boys," he said quietly, the weight of over two thousand years in his voice. "All that beauty and fire. All their kisses and the feel of their bodies underneath me. I forget them because I'm ancient, Hermes, and because no memory can exist as long as I have and stay completely whole. I've forgotten so much...." He turned his head and tilted Hermes face towards him. "But I don't want to ever forget you, Hermes."