just because it burns :: Thor/Bruce

just because it burns

Very gently, Thor cupped Bruce's face between his hands, thumbs stroking along his cheek bones to ward off the tears that welled up. His eyes were sad, but the look in Bruce's eyes – the pain, so vivid and real that he couldn't bear it – hurt.

"Hush now," he said softly. "You have naught to fear. I will protect you."

He spoke the words with promise, with a conviction that came to him easily. He would not leave Bruce, never would, he was too important and to precious. The moment that Bruce had given himself to him, Thor had known that he would do everything to keep this man safe, protect, and, above all, loved.

Bruce leaned into the touch, hungry for it, and let Thor gather him into his arms and pull him close. He curled up to him, letting Thor's voice wash over him as he spoke and slowly his breathing began to even as he drifted into sleep. Thor kept talking.

"I will stay with you; I will never leave you, of that you have my word." My love for you will never waver, I will cherish you for all the years I have and more.

FIN.