for something so simple , the repetition of his name sounds complicated . like there’s layers beneath the single syllable , and for some reason ⎯⎯⎯ it appears to be soft . vicente knows it shouldn’t feel like that , but even with the white lie , there was the slither of truth that remains ; and that part ⎯⎯⎯ the human one ⎯⎯⎯ makes him feel at ease . he knows that he should have walls up ( they do build higher as opposed to be knocked down ) after years of tiresome work , however can’t entirely deny the slight warmth that radiates . assumes that much is from company , none the wiser , a gaze that still acts as an appraisal crossing over newly named acquaintance . eamon . “ think callahan could be down the road for all i know ⎯⎯⎯ probably didn’t trek far enough . hit on the wrong door , whatever . least you’re getting some energy . ” he comments , the heat of the day sticking to skin like its rehearsal ⎯⎯⎯ every edge and crook of rugged , worked skin hydrated with the sheen of sweat . neither here or there , has just become increasingly more noticeable since he showed up .
“ oh , i think that depends on who you ask ⎯⎯⎯ ” speaks truthfully , because if vicente was an honest , good , man , he’d answer in a heartbeat . but he’s not . has enough skeletons in his closet to fill a graveyard , a crossing stranger was the least of his worries . sparing food and water also weren’t an issue , at all . keeping the rogue parts of himself hidden , however ? entirely different . careful the way he treads , metaphorically and literally , knuckles grasping at the wood of the door , swinging the screen open . a silent move , invitation , as he laughs . that is new , the sound of jovial entertainment ⎯⎯⎯ especially in this part of town ; for him . he ponders for a moment , back turned as he walks upward , simply expecting the other male to follow like some loyal dog . however he’s learnt that nothing ⎯⎯⎯ or no one ⎯⎯⎯ is ever really loyal . a smile hidden , hand spreading the skin of his neck while he cranes ⎯⎯⎯ joints clicking , before an exhale . “ age old question , isn’t it , ” now he speaks in vagueness , acutely aware of presence . “ if the tree fell in the forest but no one was around to hear it ⎯⎯⎯ did it really make a sound ? ” fears no way of sounding stupid now : it’s already left his mouth . “ either way , it works . same with doing right . ” he guesses .