As their embrace dissipated, Keiran regained his composure and reverted to his usual state of mind. He was struck with the realization of his actions and questioned why he had allowed himself to remain in Liam's embrace. He silently reprimanded himself for his foolishness, fearing that Liam may inadvertently become aware of his sexuality.
It was Liam who had discerned Keiran's unease and had gently withdrawn from their embrace, inquiring as to his well-being. Keiran responded with a nod and a grateful smile, expressing his appreciation for Liam's solicitousness.
"It was just a moment of fear," Keiran admitted, feeling a weight lifted off his chest. "I guess I'm not used to being vulnerable."
Liam's warm smile and reassuring touch on Keiran's shoulder helped ease his worries. "It's completely normal to feel scared sometimes," Liam said, his voice calm and gentle. "I want you to know that you can always count on me to be here for you. Even if we're still getting to know each other, I want to make sure you feel safe and secure. We all have moments of vulnerability, but together, we can face anything that comes our way."
Keiran felt a sense of gratitude wash over him. He had always been the one to keep his guard up and protect himself, but Liam's words and actions were slowly breaking down the walls he had built around his heart. It was a new and unfamiliar feeling, but one that he was starting to embrace.
"Thank you," Keiran said softly, looking into Liam's eyes. "I appreciate your kindness and support. I know I have a lot to learn about being vulnerable, but with you by my side, I feel like I can take on anything."
"I merely intended to inquire," Liam hushed himself. The recollection of Connor, spoken in Keiran's somnolent state, persisted in his mind despite the passage of time. Liam pondered whether Connor was a former paramour of Keiran's, given the anguished tone in which the name was uttered. However, as he gazed upon Keiran's serene visage, Liam recognized the implausibility of Keiran's desire to abandon the lively city for a rustic existence in the village.
Liam's gaze shifted from the crackling fire to Keiran, who delicately inserted a dried piece of wood into the flames. Liam couldn't help but feel a flutter in his chest as he admired how cute Keiran looked in that moment. Keiran seemed to be enjoying himself, tending to the fire with a sense of ease and familiarity. Liam found himself drawn to Keiran's delicate and refined features, and the sound of his soft breathing was like a soothing melody to Liam's ears.
As the fire grew stronger, Liam decided to add some weed to the flames. The pungent scent of mosquito-repelling weed filled the air, mingling with the warm aroma of burning wood. The two of them sat in comfortable silence, watching the flames dance and flicker. The flame kept their bodies warm against the cold environment.
"Are we going back to the village tomorrow?" Asked Keiran staring at Liam.
Keiran received no response from Liam because the latter suddenly stood up and went out. When Liam entered again. He brought a healthy rabbit that was bloodied. Keiran asked Liam was what that for.
Liam responded. "Let's grilled it and add fresh green oranges."
"Are we going back to the village tomorrow?" Keiran asked Liam, his eyes fixed on his companion. He was hesitant about spending another night in the wilderness. As a city dweller, he was used to the comforts of modern life and the idea of sleeping under the stars was a bit daunting.
Liam noticed Keiran's hesitation and decided to take matters into his own hands. He chose not to answer Keiran. Then he heard a clucking sound of rabbit outside. Hence, he suddenly stood up and left, disappearing into the bushes. Keiran was left alone, wondering what Liam was up to.
When Liam returned, he was holding a plump and healthy rabbit that was still warm and bloodied. Keiran was taken aback and asked Liam what the rabbit was for.
Without hesitation, Liam replied, "We're going to grill it and add fresh green oranges to make it even more delicious."
Keiran's initial skepticism began to resurface as he watched Liam work on the rabbit. He couldn't help but wonder about the potential risks of eating a wild animal, such as the possibility of disease or contamination. Despite Liam's expertise in hunting and butchering, Keiran couldn't shake off his lingering doubts. He decided to voice his concerns and ask Liam more questions about the safety and health risks involved in consuming wild game.
As a city guy, Keiran had never really been exposed to hunting or eating wild game. He was used to buying packaged meat from the grocery store, where safety and sanitation regulations were strictly enforced. However, as Liam explained to him the process of hunting and preparing wild animals for consumption, Keiran started to understand the care and attention that went into it.
Liam assured Keiran that the rabbit he had caught was healthy and safe to eat, and that he had been hunting and eating wild game for years without any issues. He explained that as long as the animal was properly cleaned and cooked to the right temperature, any potential health risks could be mitigated.
Keiran was relieved to hear this, and as he watched Liam grilled the rabbit over an open fire. The smell of roasting rabbit filled the air, making Keiran's stomach growl in anticipation. As they ate, Keiran was surprised at how delicious the rabbit was. The combination of the smoky grill flavor and the sweet and tangy citrus made it an unforgettable meal.
As they sat around the fire, enjoying the meal and each other's company, Keiran realized that he had underestimated the beauty and simplicity of life in the wilderness. He felt grateful for the experience and for Liam's guidance in helping him step out of his comfort zone and appreciate the natural world in a new way.