Chapter 28. Softened.

"Oh..." Ryan uttered, extending the bar of soap toward Rio. His eyes remained fixated on Rio's every move as the soap landed in his outstretched palm.

"Good boy," Rio remarked, evoking a rush of warmth within Ryan. His heart pounded in his chest as Rio began to caress him, starting at his shoulders and trailing slowly and sensually down his hairy chest, taking his time before continuing towards his torso...

Rio paused, his gaze meeting Ryan's. Ryan, who had been following Rio's hand, quickly raised his eyes to meet Rio's.

"Go ahead, we're both men," Ryan spoke, his tone wavering with uncertainty. Rio chuckled softly, the sound laced with amusement.

"I have a preference for men, Ryan," he began, piercing Ryan with his intense stare. "Aren't you uncomfortable with me touching you like..."

Rio paused, anticipating Ryan's understanding of the unspoken implication. Ryan responded with a teasing tone, playing along with the game Rio seemed to initiate.

"Like what?" Ryan inquired, his voice