Knowing that he was expected to come in, Hartley did just that, though he looked around cautiously as he did so, almost like he was expecting someone to pop out and tell him he’d done something wrong. That only lasted for a few steps though, and when he found Elliott all nerves washed away. The signing caught his eye and he couldn’t help but smile. Hi! He signed back, making his way to sit next to the other man. He pulled out the oils he’d brought with him and set the messenger bag aside. Good. You? Thank you for inviting me. You sign? Hartley didn’t simcom, so it would help to communicate knowing that Elliott had picked up some ASL. Hartley had an app on his phone for those that didn’t. The oil was picked up and he poured some onto his fingertips and rubbed them to heat them. I’ll start on your neck, okay? More rubbing to reheat, then he scooted closer to move to rub the back of Elliott’s neck in gentle but deep circles.
Hartley’s smile followed by his surprised expression at Elliott’s signing was something he noted, and he felt good about the fact that he had been able to surprise his visitor without the use of the app they had used the last time. He wasn’t proficient at all, not yet at least, but he had been practicing diligently since their first meeting and had learned enough to hold a brief and basic conversation. Hi! Elliott signed again with a cheesy grin. Happy to have you! A little. He said with a laugh. I’m learning, I want to be able to talk with you. No app. He said, shaking his head. But I still need it, a little. Elliott blushed a little and gave an apologetic smile. He watched intently while Hartley prepared the oil, then nodded when he explained what he was doing. The massage felt good, better than anything had, and he made a mental note to tell Blaine he was now a believer in those oils. He groaned, but it dawned on him that Hartley couldn’t hear it, so he shifted, moving to bring his hands into view. Thank you, Hartley. Thank you and thank you again. This feels...Perfect. Wonderful. You are magic. As the massage went on Elliott could not help but to lean to the side a little, his shoulder resting gently on Hartley’s chest. After several moments he opened his eyes, looking up at him with an embarrassed smile. I’m sorry. I’ll move, that just felt so good, I don’t know what came over me. Thank you.