Dumas made a soft rumbling noise, rather like the purr of a cat, as Mari began rubbing his shoulders.  A long time had passed since someone touched him this intimately -- and an even longer time had passed since he hadn’t paid them for the pleasure.  Now, it seemed like years of tension were being released from his muscles.  “That feels fantastic,” he murmured contentedly.  “And don’t worry about being gentle with me.  I can take it.”<br/><br/>Dumas had to smile and shake his head when Mari expressed her gratitude.  “I dunno, Bunny Girl.  You take me into your home, feed me steak, give me a massage...and then thank me for it.  That seems kind of backwards.  But I’m not complaining.”  Dumas paused for a moment.  Then, when he spoke again, his voice was more solemn.  “But seriously, that’s what friends do.  Day or night, I’m here for you.”<br/><br/>A gasp of enjoyment escaped Dumas as Mari’s fingers found a tension knot and began working it loose.  For a few minutes, he fell silent, just savoring her touch.  And while he daydreamed about impossible futures, a rare drowsiness began creeping over him.  Perhaps he’d be able to get some sleep after all.  “You know...I think I’ll take that nap.  We’ve both got some time before our shifts begin.”