Rising Uncertainty

New Normal

Phoenix smiled as he looked at Miles. He was more than happy to give him time to process his emotions and everything that had just happened. He noted that Miles was still hovering his hand above his mouth. It really had taken an effect on him.

"Wright," Miles began slowly. "I don't even know what to say."

"You don't have to say anything, Miles." Phoenix placed a hand on his knee and smiled. He felt relief flood his system when Miles smiled back and placed his hand on top of his own.

Miles squeezed Phoenix's hand and closed his eyes. He never thought something like this would happen. Sure, it was just a kiss, but it was a huge step for Miles. He hadn't kissed anyone since Michael and had refused to allow himself to feel anything for anyone since then. He has come so far from the little boy cowering in fear of von Karma. He was now someone who wouldn't lie about who he was. Even if the process was slow, he was finally starting to accept himself. Phoenix made him so happy and he wasn't ashamed, for once, to admit that he had feelings for him.

He felt freed in a way.

Phoenix looked at Miles patiently, allowing him to process what happened. He'd give him all the time in the world if he needed it. He understood why this would be a huge deal for Miles. Sure, he was giddy himself, but he hadn't kept himself from being him for forever.

Phoenix watched as Miles ran a hand through his hair, a bit relieved that he was actually moving. He couldn't help but smile when Miles finally looked him in the eyes.

"I suppose I'm meant to ask if you'd like some wine to relax so you can sleep," Miles laughed quietly.

"I think we're past that, Miles," Phoenix said with a chuckle. He looked at Miles, trying to figure out what his emotions were like. "How are you feeling?"

"I couldn't be better," Miles said quietly. He winced when he turned to grab his coat that had been dropped lazily on the table.

Phoenix didn't say anything as he reached over and grabbed the coat for Miles before placing it around his shoulders. He couldn't help but feel warmed by Miles' shy smile and tiny thanks.

"Don't strain yourself-"

"I was just trying to grab my coat, Wright," Miles said. The sharpness of his usual tone was gone and was now replaced with a gentle sadness. He was disappointed in himself, that much was clear. "I can't even do the simplest things without being hurt."

Phoenix kissed his cheek and smiled, placing his hand on his other cheek. Miles leaned into his touch and smiled, closing his eyes. He felt safe and protected.

"We'll get whoever did this," Phoenix mumbled. "Gumshoe is already tearing the streets apart."

"Wright, I know who did this," Miles said, surprising Phoenix. Miles looked away when Phoenix dropped his hand. "I only recognized them this time. They're three ex-prosecutors that I had got fired. They were hired by O'Weigh."

"I swear I'll slap him when I see him again," Phoenix muttered angrily. He was mad at himself for ever believing in the man. He couldn't believe he had even helped him.

"You were only doing your job," Miles said as if he had read Phoenix's mind. He closed his eyes and held his stomach gently, gritting through the pain. "I was never mad you were helping him... I was always just... disappointed."

Phoenix looked away from him and went silent. It felt like his heart cracked at that.

"Our arguments... they were out of frustration and bewilderment, not from a place of anger. Yes, I'll admit, I got a little heated at points, but-"