Shane being so afraid of desire because his desire directly contradicts who he's supposed to be. Learning to swallow all his need but wanting endlessly, feeling the void of longing grow within him every day, feeling it thrum in his veins with every heartbeat as he wears a carefully crafted mask of indifference.
Ilya being so afraid of love because love opens you up to hurt and loss, which is all he's ever known. Learning to bury his love deep within even though he is full to the brim with it. Learning to keep his tender heart hidden, though it aches like a bruise within him. Covering it all up with expertly maintained bravado.
Both of them becoming each other's safe haven, where the layers of their facade can be peeled back. Shane making it safe for Ilya to love. Ilya making it safe for Shane to desire.

























