Ronan glanced up at Adam when he said that, recognizing that tone, because he had heard it a thousand times before. From Declan, specifically. Not that he was mad; it was normal for Adam to assume that he meant in a brotherly way. That was, after all, how Adam felt. But he didn't want Adam to think that his thoughts were so innocent and pure. He couldn't, in good conscience, have Adam lie for him if Adam didn't know the truth.

"No," he said, "you don't." The lines between his eyes deepened. Words weren't always so easy for him outside as being as blunt as possible.

Which was why Ronan grabbed Adam's chin and leaned in, pushing their mouths together. It wasn't a dirty kiss, per se, but it wasn't the chaste kiss you'd give your brother either.

Adam's lips were as soft as they looked. Ronan thought his heart might crumble, explode, catch fire, something. It was his first kiss. It was with his first love.

After a few long seconds Ronan dropped his hand and broke the kiss, leaning away. He didn't say anything else. He didn't think he needed to. Adam would realize, be disgusted, and decide that he would like his referral sooner than later.

Still, Ronan watched his old friend's face.