Sirius managed to pull the shirt over Remus’ head about the same time Remus refound his balance, making it possible for him to let go of Sirius in order to tug the shirt off the rest of the way. Sitting upright, Remus freed his hands from the sleeves and tossing the shirt side.<br/>Having once created that distance, it felt difficult to close it. Not due to intimidation, but because nothing about their interaction was marred with a sense of urgency. Chest heaving, already feeling out of breath, Remus paused, allowing for a moment for them both to let the reality sink in.<br/>Caught in the last few moments of daylight this winter day, Sirius was truly a work of art, the icy December light bringing a shimmer to Sirius’ skin. Unable to contain it, Remus moved to reestablish some contact -<span style="font-style: italic">any</span>contact -, his fingers once again reaching for Sirius’ thighs, a simple point of balance.<br/>“You’re very handsome, Si,” Remus needed to say, fearing his gaze would otherwise be too heavy, too loaded with things Remus was better off saying out loud.