When Nikolai's hand brushed through his hair, Ferran felt his eyes slide closed. Realizing that might seem weird, he forced them open and made himself look at Nikolai, which was a mistake. There was something about the way the other man's head buzzed when he was working on something artistic. It made Ferran's chest constrict and heartbeat increase. Someone more intelligent would tell him it was love, but Ferran couldn't bring himself to think like that, wouldn't allow it.
Nikolai's focus drew Ferran to him like a beacon. Even though his friend only moved away a few paces, Ferran already missed his nearness. Sure, they were connected mentally and the hypnokinetic enjoyed received snippets of the other man's thoughts, but there was something about his physical closeness he craved.
Then Nikolai touched his arm and Ferran wondered if he could also feel the shiver that traveled through it. The lip bite, the gentle smile, and the softness that radiated from the telepath, this was the Nikolai Ferran knew well. Even from a young age, he'd always felt connected to the other man, not as lost. Taking a deep breath, Ferran slowly released it.
You're welcome, he replied, matching the other man's smile. It was strange to feel so comfortable, yet so shy around Nikolai. He wanted to run his fingers through his friend's hair, loosen the gel, and see the physical image of Nikolai match the mental one he had. If you're satisfied, Pissarro, I'm going to get to that paperwork now. Ferran's smile turned playful.