The two had practiced their dance moves and made themselves look as good as possible, unbeknownst to them that they were doing it for each other. The whole time, Octavius couldn't stop thinking about how it had felt being enveloped in Jed's arms. That was the safest he had ever felt. Jed had owed him, though, after Octavius had saved him at the Smithsonian. He had been so worried about his friend, he would've gone to any length to save him. Luckily both Jedidiah and Octavius were safe back home, but even just thinking about it brought tears to Octavius's eyes. He remembered the fear he had felt, that he would never be able to confess his feelings to Jed, that his best friend and true love would die such a terrible death. He was so grateful that they had both made it home safe and sound. He loved Jed so much, and so desperately hoped that the feeling was mutual.
"Whatcha thinking about, Octy?"
"Huh? Oh, nothing, just all the fun we'll have tonight."
"Yeah, I get a feeling it's gonna be a good one!"
"Me too," Octavius said with a gulp. He couldn't believe he was actually going to do this. What if Jed thought he was crazy? It was normal for men to love each other in ancient Rome, but in Jedidiah's time it was considered a crime. What if he ruined their friendship? He took a few deep breaths to calm himself down until suddenly he didn't feel the fear anymore. It came back eventually, but for a good few minutes, he felt nothing but euphoria.
Little did he know that Jed was just as nervous.
Finally it was time for the party. They walked off to the main room together, and Octavius was even able to slip his hand into Jed's.