[ Bastien leans back far enough to see the shyness on his face instead of only hearing it in his voice, because it’s sweet, and smiles. Outright beams, even, for a moment. ]

I think it’s easier for me, you know, to be genuine with people… sometimes… [ important qualifier ] when I know you have seen me and you want to keep looking. I hope I can be that for you.

[ That’s the selfless side of his love. Mixed with the prideful part, perhaps—the look what I have part—but mostly selfless, mostly the pure desire for Byerly to be known and appreciated.

And here’s the selfish one, confessed with self-aware amusement: ]

But I also want to sit on top of your secrets like a dragon.