8.

"So, we're moving forward," Eric said, looking out the window.

"Yes," Jack replied.

"Group is really helping me cope."

"Okay."

"And my leader said that I could maybe, try, um, exploring my feelings, with my partner."

"All right."

After a while, Eric turned away from the window and turned to face Jack, who was still standing patiently. "I... I want to try," he said quietly. "With you." He watched as Jack's eyes went from their usual hazel to a deep green. So very green, Eric marveled, even as Jack stepped toward him.

"Are you sure?" Jack asked just as quietly.

"Yeah."

They went into the bedroom, Jack making sure not to close the door. They sat on the bed, close but not touching, for long minutes. Finally, Eric reached out and took Jack's hand, feeling how solid, warm, real it felt.

Eventually, they fell back on the bed, feet still on the floor, holding hands. Eric's ever-present hypersensitivity lessened somewhat, as he just relaxed and felt Jack's warm presence.

Jack pulled his hand back and stood up with a little blush. "Um, I'm really enjoying this, but I. Um. Have to use the bathroom."

Eric nodded, and stood up himself. He gave Jack a sweet kiss. "Thanks," he whispered almost shyly.

"Anytime. Just not, now." Jack smiled before he walked out of the door.

Eric sat back down on the bed and smiled. For the first time in a long time, his heart was racing, and not because of fear. Well, maybe a little, but this was more of a good fear.

*****

Jack let him set the pace. Holding hands lead to kissing lead to touching, and it wasn't uncommon for them to share a bed now. And every day, Eric felt the piece of him that had been broken start to heal. It wouldn't mend exactly the same, but in some ways, it was stronger than it was. He was stronger.