Emerson pulled Reed as close to him as he could and tucked the other boy's head beneath his chin so he could hide if he wanted. He knew Reed very well by now, and knew enough to know that this wasn't everyday behavior for him. He wasn't usually so open with his emotions. It made Emerson feel very special that Reed could confide in him like that. He stroked his back soothingly and kissed the top of his head.
"I'm not sure, really," he said. "I suppose it's a trust issue for me. It's not something I would let just anyone to do me, so I don't want to do it to just anyone, either. Of course, you're not 'just anyone' to me, so if you wanted to try, I'd be willing to try too."
He tightened his hold on Reed. "Of course I would be careful. You mean so much to me."