Andy stopped when Taj took his wrist as though someone had just taken his batteries out, his heart still going like a rabbit's. He made a soft whine of pain as he saw the bruising on Taj, hurting more than his own bruises did. He shuddered when that hand moved over his body soft and slow and generous but melted in pliably when Taj pulled him near. He put his hands almost uncertainly at Taj's waist and tilted his head to the side when Taj snuck in there, lighting him up under his skin.
Hearing that made him nudge in for another kiss, this one sloppy and fast like he was in a rush to go somewhere, unpractised in a way it had never been before. "I love you too." he said back, relief heavy in his tone. "I love you. I need you, Taj. Stay with me."