"I want you to stay here," Adam said. He was disappointed that Alec didn't want him to paint his toes, but he wasn't going to press the offer. Dropping his eyes, he studied his nails, admiring the way the paint shimmered and caught the light. He'd never thought about doing something like this before. It was a luxury and an expense, and his father would have beaten him for coming home with nails that sparkled.

Safe in Alec's company, Adam felt a little more wondrous with his nails painted, and he splayed his fingers, appreciating that he could try things like this freely. "I like how it looks."