That look sends a thrill through Liam. Never before has he been able to break someone twice. They were too different after, and often never recovered at all. But Mike was different. Resilient and strong. The idea of getting to do it again, of needing to apply as much force as possible until just that first tear was shed, thrilled Liam more than he could imagine.

They weren't quite there yet. Because in the end Mike lowers his gaze and answers. Still so well trained. But the start of something was there. A sign that perhaps, once it had time to take root, he would need that behavior ground out of him once again. It was a day Liam would look forward to with each passing moment.

His expression softened, and his hand fell from Mike's chin to his neck. A gentle, warm touch. A reward of sorts, a subtle way of indicating there would be no violence and no punishment. His other arm draped elegantly over the man's shoulder. An intimate sort of gesture.

"Tell me about Tim," he implored. Keeping his tone level and almost sweet. Nothing to indicate the sudden flare of bitter jealousy in his chest. Mike wasn't allowed to have anyone else, not when Mike was his.