Re: [Outside Vade: Atticus/Steve]
Thought definitions were personal. Didn't think they were societal. Could be considered societal, but Atticus didn't think they should be. If Steve thought kissing made a relationship official, then he was allowed to think that. Also, Atticus didn't consider Steve as young. Looked to be, what? In his late 20s? But Steve conveyed age. Was possibility a military thing, but Atticus wasn't sure. Never actually felt that Steve was older than him, but didn't perceive a kid, either. Thought maybe it had something to do with behavior. Janus felt young. He ran from things, while subsequently running at them, in a way that reminded Atticus of his students.
"Could be," he said of seeking a relationship with his caretakers. "Haven't noticed it, though. Might be deep guilt." Gave Steve a lazy smile, one that spoke of truths, and then he took another sip of his beer. Swirled the glass. "Historically, war brings about a lot of questionable personal decisions. Marriages after a day, things like that." Knew he didn't need to tell Steve that, but was explaining that he understood as well as anyone who wasn't there could understand. "Haven't been a kid for a long time," added.
He didn't need time to think before replying to Steve's comment about wanting to be with him. "Are with me." Simple.