Gabe's chest thuds with nervousness, with anticipation. There's still fear, but it has nothing to do with Caleb. He doesn't know how to kiss, not really, hasn't kissed anyone before or since Caleb. He isn't like Joel and Spencer or Finn or Davin; he's nothing but clumsy and shy. Inexperienced.

Caleb might laugh at him and Gabe wouldn't even think him wrong for it.

But Caleb's not laughing, or making any noise at all. He's pressed so lightly against Gabe that it's almost impossible to believe it's happening. This is it, he realizes. This is a kiss. The gesture isn't scary or shameful. It's just a kiss. Gabe feels warm all over, safe instead of scared.

Uncertain, he inclines his head a little so that the connection is more real, more firm.