[Joshua isn't wrong. He does need more time. But it isn't because he feels any less for the man before him. There is simply a weighty part of Dion's own mind that doubts he truly knows what love is. Logically, he knows this can't possibly be the case. Ten years of commitment to a single man was surely evidence enough of that. Yet throughout that time, Dion had been been under the thumb of another, who leveraged that same love for ill.

The depth of that damage is still truly unknown to him. Perhaps if he ever bothered to visit the young blue boy again, and partake in his so-called "therapy," he'd be able to break through it all. But that's for future him to worry about.

Thankfully, he does not feel judged or less than within Joshua's embrace. He closes his eyes, sinking further into those arms. He lets himself be small for the space of a few breaths, allows the emotion to rock through him for a few moments longer. It hurts. He hurts. But he doesn't try to swallow it down immediately.

Progress.

Eventually, he lifts his head, meeting Joshua's eyes. His own still shimmer faintly with tears he hasn't quite been able to blink away. He's allowed himself some vulnerability, but to openly weep would be a step too far. For now, at least.]

Know that my feelings for you are vast and deep. I... may not yet have the words for it, but I do not begrudge you your own. They are... more appreciated than I may ever be able to vocalize.