The days after the argument were quieter, but the love between them burned steadier. Saint gave Joshua space, focusing on his work at the garage while checking in with gentle texts and even gentler nights. He made it clear he was all in—no pressure, just patience. “I’ll wait as long as you need,” he had whispered one night while holding Joshua close. “But I’m not going anywhere.”
Joshua appreciated it, but doubt still crept in. The fear of going public, of changing how everyone saw them, weighed on him. One afternoon, after a long studio session, Joshua sat alone staring at his camera roll. Photos of Saint filled the screen—candid shots from the cabin, stolen moments in the apartment. Saint’s strong hands, his intense eyes, the way he smiled only for Joshua. It hit him hard.
He needed to
