Today’s WIP Wednesday is brought you to by the gay explorers finally starting to admit their feelings.

“I didn’t know you felt that way,” Cornelius finally said.

Watt tilted his head. “I told you how I felt.”

“About men, but not … me.” He lifted a shoulder, looking away. “Not all men who enjoy men want men like me, if you get my meaning. And that’s fine, people like what they like.”

Watt guided Cornelius’ attention back to him with a gentle palm to the cheek. Cornelius’ eyes were wet, and his lips were pressed into a harsh line. “But I like you, Cornelius.”

Cornelius looked like he was fit to argue, but in the end he sighed, leaning into Watt’s touch. “God help you then.” He closed his eyes and whispered, “I’m fond of you too, Watt. You have no idea.”

Watt looked forward to finding out.