"An opportunity. Ja, that sounds good," Caleb agrees, his voice going a little faint toward the end as Yussa's words really sink in. It is high praise, especially from Yussa, who seems to give it so rarely. He has called Caleb competent in the past, reasonably skilled, clever, and even challenged him to complete difficult spells. But to say that he would be honored to work together makes Caleb feel, at last, like they are on more equal footing.

He recalls Yussa being far more free with his praise while he was eating him out. Yes, he'd made it quite clear how much he enjoyed his mouth, and then his cock, when it came to that. Months later, Caleb can still recall with perfect clarity how pleased he sounded, how stunning he looked spread out on the lounge in his study, the hot slickness of his cunt, the intensity of his golden eyes turned dark with desire.

Just as before, Yussa first reaches for his face, gripping his chin lightly to hold his attention. As though Caleb could possibly look anywhere else. Just as before, he loses his breath, chest suddenly tight and heat flooding his skin.

Oh, so this is going to be a thing. He won't pretend for a moment he hasn't hoped that would be the case.

"I am eager as ever to collaborate with you, Master Errenis," he agrees softly, demure, but with a hint of a smile.