[get laid is what Marco really means. But Thatch is starting to feel exhausted from it all]

One step at a time, sweetheart. [he rests his chin on Marco's shoulder and sees the happy tail swishes--though feels more than sees. A content Marco s a beautiful thing]

And noone is surprised at Beckman. Hell, he was graying the last time I met him. [but he didn't want to talk about Shanks or Beckman or anyone else right now. Though he would have to--and thinking of that--]

Listen... [he knuckled a hand along Marco's spine to massage and smooth] I need to know your boundaries, aye? For Grell. You know I wouldn't do anything to hurt you [he'd better] but I don't want you going off on me again. One splitting headache is enough. [it was't that bad. But he could feel it start to throb at the base of his temple]