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Sebs observed from the doorway as Herbert's stern expression softened, replaced by a reluctant tenderness toward Elvira. The cat had claimed her spot in Herbert's lap, an unexpected intruder disrupting the meticulous order of Herbert's scholarly pursuit.
"Elvira, you know better than to interrupt my reading," Herbert muttered halfheartedly, his words betraying the affectionate strokes he absentmindedly bestowed upon the cat. Sebs couldn't help but smile, reveling in the subtle shift that revealed the softer side of his usually stoic scientist.
Elvira, unperturbed by Herbert's scolding, nestled comfortably in his lap, a picture of contentment. Sebs felt a swell of warmth witnessing the scene—the harmony between Herbert and the feline, a sight so simple yet profoundly heartwarming.
Sebs approached his lover, his own hand nestling lovingly into Herbert’s dark locks. A sweet endearing smile grew on his face, leaning down speak softly.
“Does anyone ever tell you how lovely you are, darling?” Sebs mused, his eyes tracing every edge and line on Herbert’s face. The man felt himself flush with embarrassment, but nonetheless answered with a similar softness. “You do, my dear.”
Sebs chuckled, his gaze lingering on Herbert's eyes. "Well, allow me to be the first to say it again then. You are utterly captivating, Herbert West."
Herbert raised an eyebrow, a mix of curiosity and amusement coloring his expression. "Captivating, Sebs? I believe you've been away for too long. Elvira might have influenced you more than I thought."
Sebs laughed, a deep, resonant sound that filled the room. "Oh, my dear Herbert, Elvira might be charming, but there's no comparison to the allure you hold over me. Your mind, your dedication, even your scowls—everything about you captivates me."
Herbert's lips twitched, a ghost of a smile threatening to break free. "You've always had a penchant for sweet-talking, Sebs. Don't let it go to your head."
Sebs leaned in, his lips grazing Herbert's ear. "But what if I want it to go to my head, and my heart, and every part of me that belongs to you?"
Herbert's eyes softened, a rare vulnerability shining through. "You're incorrigible, Sebs."
Sebs smirked, pressing a tender kiss to Herbert's forehead. "And yet, you adore me for it."
Sebs would begin to pull away, but Herbert catches his hand, cradling it delicately. The text discarded to the side table, Elvira watching from below, Herbert would carefully bring Sebs’ hand to his lips, pressing a kiss to his knuckles.
Herbert’s dark eyes, as gray as rolling thunderclouds, held Sebs’ own. It told of fathomless devotion, and anyone who knew Herbert West knew that when he cared for something, he devoted himself to it. To the lab, to the reagent, to his home, and to his lovers.
Sebs felt the prickles of tears begin to swell up in his eyes. Every slash, bludgeon, and gash from his childhood felt dull compared to the utter and absolute love Herbert gave unto him. It made his demonic heart beat fast, heat flushing to his pale ears. He loved Herbert, he decided. He always knew, but it was so special and lovely to have a man as strange as Herbert West to devote himself to someone like Sebs.
“I do adore you.” Herbert confesses, and Sebs tries not to let his breath hitch. “I… I know I don’t verbally express this often. But I do. I hope you know that, Sebastian.”
Sebs bit his lip, and he leaned down, down, down, until he was on his knees in front of Herbert, his front hanging over Herbert’s lap along with Elvira. Sebs’ hand moved from being held to holding his lover’s face, cradling his cheeks in both palms.
Sebs gazed into Herbert's eyes, his own orbs glowing with a mixture of affection and something deeper, more profound. He spoke with a sincerity that echoed through the room like a whispered promise.
"Herbert, my dear, you are the most precious part of my existence. You've mended the broken fragments of my past, and in your gaze, I find a home. Your love is a masterpiece, and I revel in every stroke of affection you paint upon my soul. I love you, not just for your brilliant mind but for the heart that beats within it, a heart that chose to love someone as complicated as me."
Herbert's expression softened further, a rare vulnerability laid bare for Sebs to witness. Sebs continued, his voice like a gentle melody.
"I know words may not come easily for you, but every action, every kiss, and every shared moment speak volumes. I wouldn't have it any other way. You're my mad scientist, my steadfast anchor, and the heartbeat that echoes in the quiet moments. I adore you, Herbert West, more than any language can convey."
Time stood still as the air around them seemed to hum with the promise of home, weaving them together sweetly. Candy apple eyes meeting deep dark ones, fluttering eyelashes, melding hearts. Everything about Sebastian Owles and Herbert West, within the walls of this mortuary they called their sanctuary, screamed safe, happy, and wonderful.
All at once, Sebs and Herbert leaned forward and captured one another in a loving kiss. Lips pressed gently yet with firmness against each other, they felt safe. One heart belonging to another, and vice versa. The sweetest deal a demon could make— I promise myself to you, here and now and for lifetimes. All sealed with a kiss.
Their kiss deepened, a shared symphony of passion and adoration. It was a dance of tongues and whispered promises, an intimate connection that transcended words. Elvira, sensing the shift in atmosphere, nestled comfortably on the couch, content to be surrounded by the warmth of her owners' love.
Sebs' hands moved to cradle Herbert's face, fingers tangling in his dark locks, while Herbert's arms wrapped around Sebs, pulling him closer as if afraid to let go. The room seemed to glow with an ethereal light, and the mortuary, usually a place of death and experimentation, transformed into a haven of love.
Breaking the kiss, they rested their foreheads together, eyes closed, basking in the shared warmth of their souls entwined. Sebs whispered, his voice a gentle caress, "Herbert, you're my heart's haven, and I'm grateful for every moment we share. No words could express the depth of my love for you."
Herbert, usually stoic and reserved, pressed a soft kiss to Sebs' forehead. "Sebastian, you're my solace, my muse. I may not be adept with words, but I hope you feel my love in every touch, in every heartbeat."
And so, in the heart of their unconventional haven, Sebs, Herbert, and Elvira found solace and love—a tapestry woven with affection, trust, and the promise of a lifetime together.