Nikolai's comment actually made Ferran's face turn a light shade of pink, which only served to embarrass him further as he gave a tense chuckle in response. He saw Nikolai's gathering of the paintbrushes as a sign it was time to go. Even if it wasn't, that's how Ferran decided to take it. He found himself magnetically drawn to the other man again and feared he wouldn't be able to stop himself. That would only make a mess of things.
I've gotta go. There's a stack of paperwork with my name on it. Ferran hoped the phrase's lack of conviction didn't show. God knew he'd prefer to stay with his friend for the remainder of the afternoon... the night... the week... Ferran realized he was staring at Nikolai's jawline and he quickly gathered his shirt and magazine, then stood. It made his head swim, but it was better than getting caught in something ridiculous he'd have to explain later.