"Yes," says Johnny, quick and soft. He responds to Gabe bracing against him by pressing harder, allowing himself to relax and trust himself a little more. He's not going to hurt Gabe. He brushes more decisively, resting one hand on Gabe's shoulder, occasionally squeezing and rubbing gently.

"I like doing this for you," he says eventually, feeling it was worth more of an answer than a monosyllabic one. He smiles to himself. "I like being able to do things for you."